Mercury to March upwards; Gujarat to scorch at 41 degree Celsius

March may end with maximum temperature around 41 degree Celsius, forecast India Meteorology Department, Ahmedabad, on Tuesday. It also predicted severe heat wave conditions over some parts of Saurashtra-Kutch.

Currently, northwesterly to northerly winds are prevailing at lower level which are bringing dry winds to state. "The current situation will remain for a day. Thereafter, the direction of the wind will change. Temperature will bhover around 40 degree Celsius till Saturday," said Jayanta Sarkar, director, IMD, Ahmedabad.

The sky shall remain clear on Wednesday , MeT said.The maximum temperature will remain around 39 degree Celsius. The minimum temperature is expected to be remain around 19 degree Celsius. On Tuesday, the city recorded one of the hottest days. The maximum temperature was 40.3 degree Celsius, which was three degree above normal. The minimum temperature remained two degree below the normal and mercury settled at 19 degree Celsius.

The weather was dry across all districts. There was no large change in day temperature over Gujarat. Night temperature rose appreciably in parts of Saurashtra, fell appreciably to markedly in parts of Kutch and some other parts of Saurashtra.

"My skin was burning in the heat. It was very hot. I felt as if it was 45 degree Celsius," said Paresh Pujara, a Khadia resident.

TIPS TO AVOID HEAT

• Drink more water regardless of your activity level
   
• Avoid drinks containing alcohol or high sugar
   
• Stay indoors between 2pm and 5pm
   
• Wear lightweight, light coloured and loose-fitting clothing