UP: Today strong winds will blow in 60 districts of the state, there may be drizzle; Heat wave alert issued from Saturday
UP: Today strong winds will blow in 60 districts, As summer tightens its grip over northern India, the weather in Uttar Pradesh is expected to take a brief but dramatic turn today. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for strong winds and light rain in at least 60 districts of the state. These short-term changes, however, will offer only momentary relief, as a severe heatwave alert has been issued for several parts of UP starting Saturday.
According to the latest forecast by the regional weather center in Lucknow, gusty winds blowing at speeds of 30–40 km/h are likely to sweep through most parts of western, central, and eastern Uttar Pradesh. These winds may be accompanied by light drizzles and overcast skies, particularly in districts such as Lucknow, Kanpur, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Bareilly, Agra, Meerut, and Gorakhpur.
Meteorologists have explained that the change in weather is due to a western disturbance currently active over the northern plains, bringing cooler air and cloud formation. “This system is passing through parts of northern India, leading to increased wind activity and the possibility of light precipitation,” said an IMD official.
While these gusts and clouds will offer a brief respite from the scorching temperatures that have plagued the state in recent days, they are unlikely to bring significant rainfall or long-term cooling. By Saturday, clear skies are expected to return, paving the way for intense sunlight and rapidly rising temperatures.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for a heatwave from Saturday through early next week. The mercury is expected to soar to 44–46°C in several districts, with high humidity levels exacerbating the discomfort. Districts such as Prayagraj, Banda, Chitrakoot, Jhansi, and Fatehpur are expected to be the worst affected.
Health officials have issued advisories urging people to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, hydrate frequently, and avoid strenuous physical activity. “With this heatwave, the risk of heatstroke and dehydration increases, especially among children, the elderly, and outdoor workers,” said Dr. Anil Khanna, a health department official in Lucknow.
strong winds, The local administration in many districts has activated heatwave response protocols, including setting up cooling centers in public buildings and issuing instructions to schools to reduce outdoor activities. Some districts are also considering early summer vacations for primary schools if conditions worsen.
Farmers, too, are being advised to protect their crops, especially vegetables and fruit plantations, which are highly susceptible to heat stress and dehydration. Agricultural scientists are recommending early morning or late evening irrigation schedules to minimize water loss.
Meanwhile, urban areas may also face challenges such as power outages due to increased electricity demand for air conditioning and cooling. Water scarcity in some parts of Bundelkhand and Purvanchal has already been reported, and residents are bracing for tougher days ahead.
Despite these warnings, some residents are welcoming today’s cool breeze. “Even if it’s for a few hours, this wind is a blessing,” said Meena Devi, a homemaker in Varanasi. “We’ve had sleepless nights due to the unbearable heat. Just seeing clouds feels like relief.”
Experts are also emphasizing the larger implications of frequent and intense heatwaves, which have become more common in the last decade. According to climatologists, the frequency of pre-monsoon heatwaves in India has increased by 50% since 2000, likely due to climate change and shifting weather patterns.
“Rising global temperatures are causing erratic local weather. What used to be considered an occasional extreme is now becoming more frequent,” explained climate researcher Dr. Priya Nair. She urged policymakers to integrate long-term heat adaptation strategies into urban planning and infrastructure development.
In the coming days, people across Uttar Pradesh are being urged to remain cautious and prepared. While today’s gusty winds and cloud cover may provide a temporary break from the oppressive heat, the real test will begin over the weekend when the heatwave tightens its grip.
The IMD will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates as needed. Citizens are encouraged to stay tuned to local weather bulletins, follow official advisories, and look out for vulnerable community members during this challengi period.