India, April 9 -- Unusually high day and night temperatures were recorded across northwest India on Tuesday and Wednesday, even as some respite was expected later in the week with thunderstorm activity in parts of the region on Friday and Saturday, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

Orange and yellow alerts asking agencies to be prepared to deal with emergencies have been issued for most of the region for Thursday amid an increased likelihood of heat illnesses among those exposed to the sun for a prolonged period or doing heavy work. Infants, the elderly, and people with chronic diseases face a higher risk.

Heat wave or severe heat wave conditions were recorded in parts of western and eastern Rajasthan, Saurashtra, Kutch, ...