Nagpur: An emergency heatwave alert sent to mobile phones across Vidarbha on Tuesday created confusion and panic among many citizens, especially those who were unaware that the government had initiated a public warning system for extreme weather conditions.

Residents reported receiving a loud emergency notification accompanied by a warning message regarding severe heatwave conditions expected in several districts of Vidarbha over the next 24 hours.

The alert message stated:

“Extremely severe alert: Heat wave to severe heat wave is most likely to occur at many places and warm night is most likely to occur in isolated places over Amravati, Chandrapur, Gadchiroli, Nagpur, Wardha in next 24-hours.”

The sudden buzzing sound and emergency-style notification startled many people, with several citizens initially fearing a major disaster or security-related emergency before reading the full message.

The warning was reportedly issued as part of the government’s emergency alert system to spread awareness about dangerous weather conditions and prevent heat-related illnesses amid rising temperatures in Maharashtra.

Districts including Nagpur, Chandrapur, Amravati, Wardha, and Gadchiroli are expected to witness heatwave to severe heatwave conditions, according to the alert.

Weather experts have advised people to avoid direct sun exposure during peak afternoon hours, remain hydrated, and take precautions against heatstroke and dehydration. Authorities are also warning about “warm night” conditions, where temperatures remain unusually high even during nighttime hours, increasing health risks for vulnerable groups.

Social media platforms were flooded with reactions shortly after the alerts were received, with many users sharing screenshots and videos of their phones displaying the emergency warning.

Officials have urged citizens not to panic and clarified that the alert was a precautionary public safety message aimed at increasing awareness during the ongoing severe heatwave conditions in parts of Maharashtra.

Citizens are advised to follow official weather updates and take necessary precautions as temperatures continue to rise across the region.