NEW DELHI/CHANDIGARH, May 24 — The Directorate General of Civil Defence has issued a five-day high alert for heatstroke, warning residents to prepare for extreme heat conditions beginning May 29 and lasting through June 2. The alert comes as the Meteorological Department forecasts temperatures climbing beyond 45°C, potentially peaking near 55°C in some regions.
In its advisory to the government, the Civil Defence department urged people to avoid stepping outdoors between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., the hours deemed most dangerous for heat exposure. “If a person feels suffocated or suddenly falls ill, a doctor should be immediately consulted,” the advisory stated.
It recommends that homes be properly ventilated, use of mobile phones be reduced, and fluids like water, lemonade, lassi and fruit juices be consumed frequently. Rooms should be shaded and air-conditioned where possible, especially during the peak heat period. “After every two to three hours, take a 30-minute cooling break,” the advisory suggests.
Officials warned that worsening weather is expected in many areas, with temperatures forecast between 47°C and 55°C. Special instructions have also been issued for vehicle and household safety. Car windows should be kept slightly open for ventilation, fuel tanks should not be filled to capacity, and vehicle tyres should not be overinflated. Gas cylinders must be kept out of direct sunlight and electricity meters should not be overloaded.
“Use air-conditioners only in closed rooms during the hottest hours. If the outside temperature is around 45–47°C, the AC temperature should be maintained at 24–25°C,” the advisory added.
The Civil Defence authority emphasized that avoiding direct exposure to sunlight, especially during mid-day hours, is critical to preventing heat-related illness. Citizens have also been advised to look out for signs of heatstroke and to assist vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children during the high-risk period.
