South Asia in grip of extreme weather: Heatwave in India, cyclone in Bangladesh

A weather nightmare unfolds in South Asia. India swelters under a brutal heatwave, with record temperatures causing health concerns. Meanwhile, Bangladesh braces for a powerful cyclone, threatening coastal communities with heavy rains and storm surges. This double threat highlights the region's vulnerability to extreme weather events.

NEW DELHI, May 24 (Reuters) - South Asia faces a double weather whammy. A deadly heatwave in western India has claimed at least nine lives, suspected to be from heat stroke. Meanwhile, Bangladesh and nearby areas brace for a cyclone expected to hit in a few days. 

Scientists believe human-caused climate change likely intensified the extreme temperatures across Asia last month. In India, this translates to more frequent heatwaves this summer due to fewer pre-monsoon rainstorms and a weak El Niño weather pattern.

Rajasthan, a western state in India, is battling a brutal heatwave. Local media reports at least nine deaths suspected to be heatstroke related. While official confirmation awaits medical examination, the scorching temperatures are a cause for concern. Barmer, a city in Rajasthan, recently recorded a record high of 48.8 degrees Celsius (119.84 Fahrenheit).

Here's a paraphrase of the passage combining the information about India, Pakistan, and the heatwave:

The scorching heat gripping South Asia intensifies. Weather officials in India warn of heatwave conditions across several regions, including Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana. 

These areas could experience temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), significantly higher than normal. Neighboring Pakistan also faces a severe heatwave impacting 26 districts, with temperatures expected to remain high until the end of May.

The heat intensifies in Pakistan! Temperatures in Sindh province are forecast to reach a scorching 50°C (122°F) in at least two cities on Friday. This brutal heatwave has already forced officials to delay annual school exams in the region.

CYCLONE IN BANGLADESH

‍While South Asia swelters, another weather threat emerges. Cyclone Remal, classified as "severe cyclonic storm" by the IMD, is forecast to make landfall in Bangladesh and parts of West Bengal on Sunday, bringing a stark contrast to the scorching heat gripping other regions.

Adding to the weather woes in South Asia, Kerala faces heavy monsoon rains. The state has already seen at least seven deaths and travel disruptions due to flooding caused by heavier-than-normal pre-monsoon rains. Weather officials have issued a red alert, warning of very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall expected to continue on Friday.

Source: Reuters‍