GUWAHATI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued its first heatwave warning for Assam in recent years, as the Northeast region grapples with extreme heat conditions.
Guwahati, the largest city in Assam, recorded a maximum temperature of 40.1 degrees Celsius, marking the highest May temperature since 1960.
This figure represents an 8-degree deviation from the normal temperature for this time of year.
The previous record was set on May 1, 1960, when the city experienced a maximum temperature of 40.3 degrees Celsius, the highest ever recorded.
In response to the intense heat and high humidity, the Assam education department has directed district administrators to adjust school timings to start as early as possible.
Additionally, the governments of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh have issued health advisories to protect residents from the adverse effects of the heatwave.
The IMD predicts that the current heat conditions will subside on Sunday (May 26), as Cyclone Remal is expected to make landfall in West Bengal and Bangladesh.
The cyclone is anticipated to bring rainfall to the Northeast states, including Assam, from May 26 to 28, offering some respite from the scorching temperatures.