Intense heat wave sweeps nation as mercury crosses 40 degree Celsius mark

Intense heatwave conditions prevailed in various parts of Rajasthan including Ajmer, Bikaner, Jodhpur and Kota divisions.

MeT officials said, Jaisalmer was the hottest place in the state with 46.5 degrees Celsius, followed by Churu with 46.4 and Bikaner with 46.2 degrees Celsius.

Thunderstorm with very light rain also occurred at isolated places in Jaipur, Bikaner, Kota and Ajmer divisions in the last 24 hours.

According to the MeT department, heat wave conditions are likely to prevail over parts of West Rajasthan and Vidarbha during next five days and at one or two pockets over northern parts of Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada.

People were seen taking ice creams and cold-drinks in Gujarat's Ahmedabad to beat the heat as temperature rose across the nation.

In Punjab's Ludhiana, people covered their heads and faces to shield themselves from heat as mercury rises across nation.

"Temperature to go above 40 degrees Celsius in coming days. It's likely to go down on May 2 and 3, some places will receive light showers," India Meteorological Department said.