Reported by Roopak Goswami
Guwahati: Assam is set to experience an intense spell of hot and humid weather over the next 48 hours, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning that temperatures across several parts of the state are likely to remain 3°C to 5°C above normal.
According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Guwahati, maximum temperatures are expected to exceed 35°C in several places due to clear to partly cloudy skies and strong solar heating during the daytime.
The weather office said the combination of rising temperatures and high humidity could lead to uncomfortable hot and humid conditions across parts of Assam over the next two days, increasing the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat-related illnesses, particularly among infants, elderly people, pregnant women and those with existing health conditions.
On Sunday, Dhubri and Silchar emerged as the hottest places in the state, recording maximum temperatures of 35.6°C, while North Lakhimpur registered the lowest minimum temperature at 23.3°C. Guwahati airport recorded a maximum temperature of 35.4°C.
The IMD, however, indicated that there may be some relief later in the week, forecasting a likely fall of 4°C to 6°C in maximum temperatures in the coming days.
Authorities have advised residents to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours, wear light cotton clothing, stay hydrated and avoid leaving children or pets inside parked vehicles.
Farmers and outdoor workers have also been urged to take precautions amid rising heat stress.
The advisory comes at a time when several parts of Assam are already witnessing uncomfortable humidity levels, making conditions feel significantly hotter than the recorded temperatures.