Bhopal, May 25 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh is currently experiencing a severe heatwave, with maximum temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius in various regions, prompting the weather department to issue alerts across 25 districts.

According to the bulletin issued by the Meteorological Centre, Bhopal, western parts of the state recorded maximum temperatures between 42 and 44 degrees, while eastern parts saw 43-45 degrees. The highest temperature of 45.8 degrees was registered in both Khajuraho and Naugaon a day earlier.

Heatwave conditions were officially recorded in Khajuraho, Datia, and Naugaon. The India Meteorological Department has forecast that on Monday, most parts of the state are likely to experience maximum temperatures between 42 and 45 degrees, which is significantly above normal. The heat is expected to remain severe over the coming days. Also, thunderstorms and rain are reported in Badwani, Burhanpur, Dewas and Dhar districts.

Duststorm reported in Dewas, South Khargone and South Sehore districts in the past 24 hours. The Meteorological Centre has issued heatwave warnings for as many as 25 districts on Monday.

These include Satna, Panna, Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh, Niwari, Rajgarh, Agar, Datia, Bhind, Singrauli, Sidhi, Rewa, Mauganj, Umaria, Katni, Jabalpur, Narsinghpur, Mandla, Balaghat, Damoh, Sagar, Maihar, Bhopal, Vidisha, Raisen, Sehore, Narmadapuram, Burhanpur, Khandwa, Khargone, Ratlam, Ujjain, Shajapur, Mandsaur, Neemuch, Guna, Ashoknagar, Shivpuri, Gwalior, Morena, Sheopur Kalan, Anuppur, Shahdol, and Dindori.

Heat index maps for May 25 and 26 indicate that a large portion of the state, particularly eastern and northern districts, will experience high discomfort levels with heat index values crossing dangerous thresholds.

Red zones marked as severe heatwave warnings are visible in several northern and eastern districts on the warning maps. The bulletin has advised citizens to take all necessary precautions. People have been urged to avoid going out in the sun between noon and 4 p.m., stay hydrated, and wear light-coloured loose clothing.

Special care should be taken for vulnerable groups, including children, elderly persons, and those suffering from chronic illnesses.

Farmers and outdoor workers have been advised to reschedule their work timings.

The intense heat has come as a major challenge during the ongoing summer season, with Ganga Dussehra and Bakrid festivals approaching. Authorities are expected to issue further guidelines for public safety at religious sites and ghats.

The Meteorological Department has indicated that the heatwave conditions are likely to persist for the next few days, urging people to remain vigilant and follow all heat safety protocols.

–IANS

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