India, May 20 -- Banda district in Uttar Pradesh has emerged as India's hottest location, recording a peak temperature of 48.2degC and forcing daily life to shut down by 10 am as extreme heat grips the region.

The intense heat has made normal activity nearly impossible during daytime hours, with residents and shopkeepers adapting their routines to early mornings. Many markets become deserted by late morning, as temperatures rise sharply and streets remain empty for most of the day.

According to data, Banda has repeatedly recorded some of the highest temperatures in the country, surpassing even traditionally hot regions like Rajasthan. Earlier readings this year touched 47.6degC, and the latest spike has pushed it to a new seasonal extre...