Multiple Unidentified Deaths Suspected Due to Heatstroke and Starvation A severe heatwave gripping Nagpur and the Vidarbha region has led to multiple suspected deaths linked to heatstroke and starvation, as temperatures soared past 47°C. The crisis has intensified during the traditional "Nautapa" period, known for its extreme summer conditions. Nagpur recorded a staggering 46.5°C on Monday, placing it among the hottest cities globally. With nighttime temperatures offering little relief, authorities are investigating a series of deaths over the past few days. Five unidentified men, aged between 33 and 55, were found dead in different areas of the city, including Kapilnagar, Wathoda, Pachpaoli, Imamwada, and Hudkeshwar. The deceased were either homeless or associated with the Government Beggars' Reception Centre. They were discovered unconscious in gardens, near roadsides, and in open spaces, often wearing minimal clothing to cope with the oppressive heat. Doctors at Mayo Hospital confirmed their deaths upon arrival, though autopsy reports are pending. Authorities suspect prolonged exposure to extreme heat, dehydration, and starvation contributed to the fatalities. Police have circulated descriptions of the victims to identify them, while health officials emphasize the dangers of the current weather conditions. The incident has sparked concerns about the vulnerability of homeless populations and those without access to adequate shelter or resources. The heatwave has also disrupted daily life, with residents struggling to cope in the sweltering temperatures. Local authorities are urging people to take precautions, such as staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged outdoor activity, and seeking shelter during peak heat hours.#nagpur #mayo_hospital #vidarbha_region #nautapa_period #government_beggars_reception_centre
Vidarbha Faces Intense Heatwave as Nautapa Period Begins, Bramhapuri Records 47.2°C The Nautapa period, a traditional marker of peak summer temperatures in Vidarbha, is set to begin on May 25, bringing prolonged scorching conditions across the region. Weather forecasts indicate maximum temperatures will range between 43°C and 45°C during the Nautapa period, which spans from May 25 to June 2. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that temperatures remained significantly above normal, with Bramhapuri emerging as the hottest location in the country at 47.2°C. Other districts recorded high temperatures, including Chandrapur at 45.6°C, Wardha at 45.5°C, Nagpur at 45.4°C, and Amravati and Gadchiroli at 45.2°C each. Gondia reached 45°C, while Bhandara hit 44.8°C. Humidity levels remained low, exacerbating the dry and harsh conditions. Scientifically, the Nautapa period coincides with the "zero shadow period," when the sun remains nearly overhead between latitudes 13° and 23.5°, causing direct solar heating of the land surface. This intensifies ground and air temperatures, creating extreme heatwave conditions. Hot winds from Rajasthan and Gujarat sweep across Vidarbha and central India during this time, further contributing to the heat. Environmentalist Suresh Chopane highlighted that historical records show some of the region’s highest temperatures—up to 48°C and 49°C—occur during Nautapa. He noted that temperatures in evening, late-night, and early-morning hours also remain above normal, reducing the usual cooling relief experienced during night hours. The persistent heat in cities like Nagpur is attributed to the "urban heat island effect," a phenomenon where rapid urbanization traps heat in urban areas.#suresh_chopane #vidarbha #india_metereological_department #nautapa_period #bramhapuri
