Modi urges precautions as India faces severe heatwave

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens across India to take maximum precautions as a severe and prolonged heatwave continues to grip large parts of the country, posing significant health risks and straining resources. The Prime Minister’s appeal, issued in a series of public statements on Wednesday, emphasized the dangers of extreme heat, especially for vulnerable populations.

Modi advised people to stay hydrated, carry water when going outside, and offer water to others in need. He specifically highlighted the risks to children, the elderly, and outdoor workers, warning that ignoring signs of heat exhaustion like dizziness, nausea, or extreme fatigue can quickly lead to dangerous heatstroke. He also encouraged citizens to check on elderly family members and to place bowls of water outside for birds and animals affected by the harsh conditions.

The warnings come as official data confirms exceptionally high temperatures. The India Meteorological Department reported that the city of Banda in Uttar Pradesh recorded a high of 47.4 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, a temperature categorized as a severe heatwave. On Wednesday, international air quality monitoring data indicated...