Lucknow sweltered under intense heat on Sunday as temperatures soared to 40.9°C, coupled with high humidity. Brief relief came in the evening with strong gusty winds. However, the Meteorological Department has warned of rising heat, with temperatures likely to cross 41°C by Monday and climb another 2–3°C in the coming days.

The Meteorological Department attributes the rise in temperature to a weakening monsoon and a western disturbance becoming active, though it has no impact on the city.

The monsoon's delayed and weak progress has exacerbated conditions across Uttar Pradesh. Districts like Jhansi and Prayagraj are baking at 43°C, while Lucknow, Kanpur and Varanasi face relentless heat. IMD reports that moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal have failed to reach North India, leaving skies cloudy but rainless.

With no rainfall expected for 5-7 days, experts warn of worsening heatwaves. A potential low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal may bring respite by mid June, but until then residents should brace for gruelling days and humid nights.