Orange Alert for 12 Telangana districts as temperatures soar past 45°C; Hyderabad at 40°C

Hyderabad: As summer tightens its grip on Telangana, Hyderabad recorded a daytime high of 40°C on Thursday, while districts across the northern part of the State reported soaring temperatures breaching the 45°C mark.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for 12 districts, urging residents to avoid direct exposure to sunlight between 12 pm and 4 pm.

Temperatures cross 45°C in multiple districts

Data from the Telangana Development Planning Society (TDPS) shows several areas in northern Telangana reeling under extreme heat. Kondur in Nizamabad district recorded 45.3°C, while Adilabad reached 45.2°C, Nirmal touched 45.1°C and Mancherial registered 45°C.

These figures mark some of the highest temperatures recorded in the region this season, prompting authorities to step up heat-related advisories.

Heatwave triggers health concerns

The IMD has issued public safety guidelines, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and outdoor workers. People are being advised to stay indoors during peak hours, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous physical activity.

Speaking to NewsMeter about the conditions, Dr KS Sridhar, an IMD meteorologist, said, “Persistent high-pressure systems are trapping heat near the surface. With above-normal temperatures already expected this season, we may see prolonged and intense heatwaves similar to 2017.”

Temperatures are likely to rise further

Forecast models indicate that this could just be the beginning. Daytime temperatures may rise up to 48°C by early May, according to long-range forecasts. The IMD has cautioned that extended dry spells and clear skies will likely contribute to this sharp increase.

“The atmospheric conditions are such that we don’t expect much cloud cover or rain in the coming weeks. This will lead to direct heating of the land surface and further intensification of the heatwave,” said Sridhar.

Government and local response

In light of the IMD’s warnings, district administrations have begun public outreach efforts to spread awareness on heat safety. Drinking water stations are being set up in busy areas and health workers are being deployed to monitor symptoms of heatstroke, especially in rural regions.

Local authorities have also advised schools to limit outdoor activities and have recommended that labour-intensive work be scheduled for early mornings or after sunset.

Citizens urged to stay vigilant

With the next few weeks expected to bring even higher temperatures, the IMD is continuing to monitor conditions closely. People are advised to follow updates from official sources and take all necessary precautions.

As Telangana braces for what may be one of its harshest summers in recent years, experts emphasise that climate-resilient practices and public awareness will be crucial in minimising the impact.