For the last few days, large parts of India have been experiencing the first spell of heatwaves this season. On Monday, maximum temperatures in several places were already more than 5℃ above normal. Banda in Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest temperature in the country at 47.6℃. On Tuesday, Banda recorded 45.6℃. While this spell is likely to begin dissipating soon , possibly from Wednesday in some areas, it is just a forewarning of what might be in store for the next few months. There are indications that temperatures would remain high this year, not just in the summer months but even extending into the monsoon season, and thereafter. That may mean several such spells of heatwaves could be possible in the coming months. With rainfall expected to be a little subdued, particularly during the second half of the monsoon season, India could be facing prolonged periods of intense heat this year.…