Wet-bulb Temperature And IMD Heatwave Alerts: Essential Safety Guide For North India (May 2026)

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a severe heatwave alert for North India. From May 18 to 22, regions like Delhi-NCR will face intense heat. Forecasters now use wet-bulb temperature to track health risks. This metric shows how heat and humidity affect the human body. It helps people stay safe during the peak summer days.

A normal thermometer measures air heat, but wet-bulb readings include moisture. High humidity prevents our sweat from evaporating quickly. This makes the day feel much hotter than the official reading. Rajasthan and Haryana will likely feel the dry, hot 'Loo' winds. These conditions make staying informed vital for health and safety.

Wet-bulb Temperature: Your Guide To Heat Safety

Understanding Wet-bulb Temperature and IMD Alerts

People often see the heat index and wet-bulb temperature in news reports. The heat index shows what the temperature feels like to us. Wet-bulb readings show the lowest level of cooling through evaporation. A reading of thirty-five degrees Celsius is the survival limit for humans. It helps in planning outdoor work safely this week.

Feature	Heat Index	Wet-bulb Temperature
Measurement	Apparent heat	Evaporative cooling
Key Factor	Relative humidity	Water evaporation
Risk Limit	Subjective	35 degrees Celsius

Residents in Uttar Pradesh should prepare for high heat this week. The IMD uses red alerts to signal extreme danger for citizens. A red alert means heat illness is very likely for most people. Outdoor workers must take breaks during the hot afternoon hours. Carrying cool water is a simple way to stay healthy now.

Staying Safe During the Wet-bulb Temperature Spike

Parents should keep their children indoors during the hottest part of the day. Workers need to find shade and rest often to avoid heatstroke. Drinking plenty of water is necessary for everyone right now. Wear light cotton clothes to help your skin stay cool. These habits save lives when the summer sun is strong.

Information about these terms helps people adapt to new weather trends. These IMD alerts for May 18 to 22 show the need for care. By tracking the wet-bulb temperature, we can protect ourselves from harm. Awareness is a powerful tool against rising heat across India. We should prioritize health during this difficult summer period.