The oppressive heatwave season has commenced, with the Meteorological Department forecasting an unusually high number of severe heatwaves across most parts of India in the next three months. This poses an increased risk to public health due to the rise in outdoor activities during the Lok Sabha. Warnings have been issued to all states and union territories as temperatures have already soared past 38℃ in several cities and are expected to exceed 40℃ soon.
"We anticipate above-average heatwave conditions until June. About 10 to 20 heatwave days are anticipated in various states, compared to the usual four to eight days each summer. It is imperative to take extensive measures at all local levels to safeguard public health during this time," stated Dr. M Mohapatra, Director General of Meteorology at the IMD on Monday. He added that the intensity of heatwaves is expected to peak in May and June, with above-average temperatures persisting, especially over central and southern India.
India continues to grapple with devastating heatwaves year after year, with record temperatures during summer impacting agriculture, the power sector, and leading to an increase in hospitalizations.
HIGH INTENSITY, MOISTURE LEVELS IN WESTERN STATES AND SOUTHERN PENINSULA
The IMD's forecast suggests that western states and parts of the southern peninsula are likely to be the hardest hit this summer, with high intensity and humidity levels. Gujarat, Madhya Maharashtra, and North Karnataka are particularly prone to experiencing increased heatwave days this summer, exacerbated by below-normal precipitation. This region has already witnessed warmer-than-average temperatures in February and March.
Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, North Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh are other major states prone to heatwaves. The long-range summer outlook suggests that central India, the adjacent areas of the northern plains, and South India can expect two to eight days of heatwaves in April, compared to the usual one to three days. The intensity stress may be exacerbated by the urban heat island effects in certain cities.