Many regions of India were sizzled under immense heatwave. Many places recorded temperature above 45 degrees that have not even experienced this kind of weather. According to India Meteorological Department forecast, there is unlikely to be any relief soon. This year has already given us all the sweats, all the heatwaves we could have ever imagined. It’s not yet June but the heatwaves have risen. The IMD reports say that the temperatures might rise more increasing heatwaves in many parts of the country.
Which states are observing the maximum heatwaves in the country?
According to the Indian Meteorological Department, Odisha and West Bengal have witnessed the highest temperature in 2024 till now. Orange alert has been issued in Jharkhand and Bihar. Yellow alert has been issued in eastern Uttar Pradesh and northern part of Kerala due to the increase in the heatwave in these places. Not only this, Odisha and West Bengal are expected to see a rise in the temperature in the coming months due to the prevailing hot and humid conditions.
The IMD has issued a warning saying ‘heatwave to severe heatwave’ conditions to prevail in the eastern and southern peninsular region in India. A rise of 2-3 degree is also expected in east India and the state of Maharashtra as well. Although for the Himalayan region, central and northwest regions, rainfall and gusty winds are expected.
Also, both the WMO and IMD have said that 2024 is set to make new records when it comes to the heatwaves in May especially on the northern and central regions of India. As per reports, this year India will see temperature that is said to cross human survivability level.
What are the health impacts of these heatwaves? Do they cause a problem?
Well, the answer to this is YES!
Heat waves can cause a number of health issues like:
• Heat cramps
• Heat exhaustion
• Heat stokes
But what are the measures to reduce the impact of heat waves?
• Avoid going to the sun between 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm.
• If you feel faint or ill, see a doctor immediately.
• While travelling, carry water with you.
• Drink sufficient water as often as possible, even if you aren’t thirsty.
• Avoid tiring or strenuous activities when the temperature is high.
• If you work outside, use a hat or an umbrella.
But what are the reasons of the rise in heatwaves?
Between 1961 and 2021, heatwaves increased in India by 2.5 days due to global warming and that is the most probable reason for the heatwaves in 2024 as well.
Apart from the heatwaves, IMD has also predicted an ‘above normal’ rainfall this season and to astonishment, it is the first time IMD is saying that after 2016.
Also, an El Nino is expected to be neutral by the time the monsoon season arrives in the nation. Then, it will gradually turn into La Nina which is a positive ocean dipole.
This season, the weather, the heatwaves are going to be extra than usual and we, should be ready for it with all the precautions and the measures.