Kanpur: The mercury continued its upward trend for the fourth consecutive day on Monday, leaving residents perplexed as soaring temperatures gripped the city. The Air Force observatory at Chakeri recorded a maximum temperature of 42.6°C, setting a new record for the month of April.Meanwhile, the weather observatory at Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology reported a slightly lower maximum of 41°C, indicating a brief stagnation in temperature for the second day. However, citizens expressed concern that this year’s summer could surpass previous records.The prevailing conditions gave a ‘feels-like’ temperature of around 45°C due to reduced humidity levels recorded at 57%. Light northwesterly winds blowing at a speed of 3 kmph added to the discomfort, creating heatwave-like conditions across the city.The India Meteorological Department had earlier forecast a steady rise in temperature throughout the week, predicting that the mercury could reach 43°C to 44°C by April 24. The department reiterated that temperatures are likely to climb further on Tuesday under clear skies, with the possibility of high-altitude cloud movement. Strong, hot winds resembling heatwave conditions are also expected during daytime hours.The extreme heat has significantly affected daily life. An auto-rickshaw driver said that despite covering himself with a scarf and staying hydrated by consuming water there was no relief from thirst and heat. People who had to venture outdoors for work or emergencies, had to face scorching heat.Weather expert Dr S Sunil Pandey from the CSA advised children and the elderly to avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours. He recommended staying in cool, shaded places and advised those who have to move outside to wear light cotton clothing, carry umbrellas or gamchas, and keep water bottles handy to stay hydrated.Pandey warned that temperatures are expected to rise further in the coming days and emphasised the need for precautionary measures to cope with the intensifying heat.
