Lucknow endured its hottest day of the season on June 12, with temperatures soaring to 44°C, 4.7 degrees above normal. Humidity made it feel like a blistering 48°C, forcing most residents indoors. The minimum temperature wasn’t kind either, staying at 31.2°C, 4 degrees above average. Streets wore a deserted look, with only a few braving the heat for essential tasks, their faces shielded with towels, scarves, and caps.

According to IMD officials, the relentless heat is due to clear skies and strong westerly winds. However, relief is in sight. A slight dip in temperature is expected from Friday, with light drizzle likely after two days due to an incoming western disturbance from Afghanistan.

Lucknow wasn’t alone in facing the heat. Banda and Orai topped the state charts at 44.8°C, followed by Jhansi (44.7°C), Kanpur (44.6°C), and Prayagraj (44°C). The IMD has issued a heatwave alert for parts of western and central UP, including Ghaziabad, Agra, Mathura, and Jhansi.

Meteorologists predict the mercury will remain high on Friday, but rainfall from June 14 onwards could bring much-needed relief across the state.