In the midst of a scorching heatwave that is already impairing the northern and central parts of the country, the Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning for 15 states and Union territories over the course of the next five days. Heat Wave likely to continue
On Thursday, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the Director-General of Meteorology at the India Meteorological Department issued a fresh warning of the commencement of a heatwave in several parts of north-west and central India. The welcomed presence of western disturbances over the north-western parts of the country had thawed the month-long heatwave which prevailed across the country and has resulted in a reduction in the daily temperatures in the past week. According to the department, these temperature conditions will continue for the next 2-3 days.
Even so, as per predictions of IMD, a fresh heatwave is likely to commence in Rajasthan. Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Vidarbha are expected to experience isolated heatwave conditions. These areas will experience the brunt of the heatwave from May 4th to May 7th, which will then pass onto the central and north-western regions of the country.
What is a heatwave?
A Heat Wave is a state of extremely high air temperature which is considered lethal to the human body if it is exposed to it. According to the Indian Meteorological Department, a heatwave occurs when the highest temperature of plains crosses 40.0 degrees Celsius and that of hilly regions crosses a temperature of more than 30 degrees. However, if the temperature crosses the 47-degree Celsius threshold, it is considered to be a ‘severe heat wave’. The heatwave is a result of a strong anti-cyclone over the Northern Arabian Sea which has bought hot westerly winds along with it.
Unfavourable effects of a heatwave and precautionary measures
Heatwaves can lead to health concerns for vulnerable sections of society, including infants, the elderly, and those prone to chronic diseases. Prolonged exposure to the sun can result in symptoms of heat illness. Taking into account the sweltering heat conditions IMD has issued an advisory of precautionary measures to be followed while going outside during the daytime, especially between 11 am to 3 pm. The department has also urged people to avoid heat exposure and drink sufficient water to avoid dehydration. Usage of hats, umbrellas and light-coloured loose cotton clothes has also been requested by IMD.
Monitoring the weather patterns of southern India, the IMD has issued guidelines regarding the weather conditions for the next 5 days. North Coastal Andhra Pradesh is expected to witness thunderstorms accompanied by lighting while the Southern Coast of Andhra Pradesh might experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gushing winds at the speed of 40-50km per hour.
In a statement, the meteorological department asserted that March of 2022, was recorded as the hottest March for India in 122 years. The monthly average temperature of March was recorded at 33.1 degrees Celsius which broke the all-time high record of 33.09 in 2010.
Schools shut down across several states
In order to protect children from the heat, many states across the country have made announcements of early summer vacations for school-going children. Schools in Bhopal and Madhya Pradesh have been shut since April 29 and those in Andhra Pradesh will shut down from May 6.
M Rajeevan, former secretary of the ministry of earth sciences stated the need to create awareness and take action against the deadly heatwaves which can prove fatal to the farmers, laborers, and construction workers working outdoors.
published by: Ifa ZamzamiÂ
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