Ahmedabad Braces for Heatwave: 45 Hotspots Identified as Mercury Set to Hit 44°C

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued Orange and Yellow alerts for the city from Friday till May 14.

According to the IMD's Ahmedabad centre, Yellow alerts have been issued from May 8 (Friday) to May 11 (Monday) and again till the morning of May 14, while Orange alerts warning of heatwave conditions remain in force till the mornings of May 11 and May 13.

The weather department has forecast maximum temperatures between 42 and 44 degrees Celsius during the seven-day period, with minimum temperatures likely to remain between 27 and 28 degrees Celsius.

In response to the rising temperatures, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has identified 45 heat hotspots across the city for the next three days.

The hotspots were mapped based on temperature forecasts prepared by the IMD for 17 wards spread across six zones of the city and projected maximum temperatures in different localities.

Civic authorities said residents will be able to access information on identified hotspots as well as area-wise maximum temperatures through a QR code-based system introduced as part of the city's heat response measures.

The information will include expected temperatures between 12 noon and 5 p.m., considered the most intense heat period of the day.

The AMC has appealed to residents to take precautions against extreme heat and dehydration.

Citizens have been advised to carry water bottles while travelling outdoors and drink fluids such as water, lemon juice, buttermilk and coconut water regularly.

The advisory also recommends eating fresh fruits and vegetables while avoiding spicy food, stale food, excessive protein intake, tea, coffee and aerated drinks.

Residents have also been advised to avoid stepping outdoors between 12 noon and 4 p.m. as far as possible, wear loose light-coloured cotton clothing, and use umbrellas, caps or scarves while travelling in the sun.

The civic body further advised people engaged in outdoor work to take frequent breaks and rest periodically in cool places.

The AMC urged citizens to pay special attention to children, elderly persons and pregnant women, who are considered particularly vulnerable during prolonged heat exposure.

The civic body listed symptoms of heatstroke and heat-related illness, including excessive sweating, weakness, headaches, dizziness, red and dry skin, muscle pain, nausea and vomiting.

Residents experiencing such symptoms have been advised to seek immediate medical assistance, while emergency cases have been directed to contact the 108 ambulance service.

- IANS