The northern part of India, primarily Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, are reeling under intense heat wave with temperatures soaring as much as to 46 degree Celsius in some parts of the cities.

The heatwave conditions are expected to reach the peak intensity on Tuesday in the northwest, central and some interior parts of eastern India, the India Meteorological Department has said.

The India Meteorological Department has issued an ‘orange’ warning for parts of Delhi on Tuesday. An ‘orange’ warning is issued for a heat wave, while a ‘red’ warning is issued for a severe heat wave.

The Safdarjung Observatory recorded a high of 44 degrees Celsius, four notches above normal. The weather stations at Palam, Lodhi Road and Aya Nagar recorded their respective maximums at 46.2 degrees, 44 degrees and 45.6 degrees Celsius respectively.

So as the country faces scorching heat, here are few steps that you should follow to cope with the harsh weather and be safe:

Keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day, and open windows at night when the temperature has dropped.

Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes.

have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water
Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol.

Water, lower-fat milks and tea and coffee are good options.

Avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeine, as both of these substances can act as diuretics and promote dehydration.

Don’t eat large, protein-rich meals that can increase metabolic heat and warm the body.

If you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat and light scarf.