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
