Two individuals succumbed to heatstroke in Nagpur as the city sweltered under scorching temperatures, peaking at 45.6 degrees Celsius on Monday, May 27, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). With a total of nine heatstroke fatalities reported in Nagpur so far, concerns over the rising mercury levels are mounting.
The first victim, a 35-year-old man bearing a tattoo of ‘Om’ on his right hand, was found at Shanichara Bazaar in Kamal Chowk under Pachpaoli Police Station jurisdiction around 4:35 pm. The second incident occurred behind the Durgamata Temple in the Lohapul area under Sitabuldi Police Station limits, where the body of a 45-year-old man was discovered. Both deaths are attributed to heatstroke, prompting the police to register cases of accidental death and launch investigations.
Nagpur experienced its highest temperature of the season, hitting 45.0 degrees Celsius, marking a significant deviation from the usual. Bramhapuri, witnessing temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius in recent days, recorded Maharashtra’s highest maximum temperature on Monday at 47.10 degrees Celsius, likely the second-highest in decades after a record of 47.7 degrees Celsius in 1983.
The scorching heat forced most residents indoors, leaving the roads deserted till 5 pm. Hot winds exacerbated the discomfort, prompting the Weather Department to advise citizens to stay indoors and stay hydrated with water, buttermilk, or juices. However, there’s little relief in sight as forecasts indicate a further rise in temperatures throughout the remaining week.