The city continued to reel under a severe heat wave on Thursday as the mercury soared to 43.8 degrees Celsius during the day, though the intense heat made it feel well above 45 degrees. Scorching winds added to the misery of residents, making stepping outdoors an ordeal. The local weather department recorded the temperature at 40 degrees Celsius at 11 am itself. Weather experts have warned that the mercury may touch 45 degrees in coming days. On the same date last year, the city had recorded a maximum of 41.0 and a minimum of 27.0 degrees Celsius. Spokesman, weather department informed that the temperature trend is rising fast. If the sky remains clear and winds stay slow, the mercury could break the season's record in coming days.

 

Wednesday was already the hottest day of the season so far, with the daytime temperature touching 44.9 degrees Celsius. The weather department has issued severe heat wave alert for Jabalpur and the entire division for the next four days. The heat wave is likely to persist across most parts of the division till May 23. Temperatures are expected to break records repeatedly during this period. The department has advised residents to avoid going out between 12 noon and 4 pm when the heat wave is at its peak. Children, elderly persons and those with illness have been asked to take extra precautions. Coolers and fans are reportedly struggling to cope after 10 am and nights too have become restless for most residents.