By Isha - Apr 01, 2025
India is bracing for an intense heatwave this summer, as the Meteorological Department warns of record-breaking temperatures and prolonged heatwaves across the country. The rising global temperatures and climate change are expected to exacerbate the situation, posing risks to public health, agriculture, and energy consumption. Measures are being taken to prevent power shortages and blackouts amid soaring demand for cooling devices. Vulnerable populations are advised to stay hydrated, seek shade, and wear light clothing to mitigate the health risks associated with the extreme heat.
A heatwave spell stretching 32 days in 2019 via nagpurtoday.in
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India’s Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an urgent warning about an intense heatwave expected to sweep across the country this summer. With rising global temperatures and shifting climate patterns, 2024 is predicted to be one of the hottest years on record for India, posing significant risks to public health, agriculture, and energy consumption. Power grids are expected to be under immense strain as demand for air conditioning and cooling devices surges. Authorities are working to prevent power shortages and blackouts that could worsen the situation.
According to the IMD, several regions, particularly in northwestern, central, and southern India, are likely to experience prolonged heatwaves from April to June. States such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha are expected to see temperatures soaring above 45°C (113°F) in the peak months of May and June. Major metropolitan areas like Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad may also face record-breaking heat. The IMD has also recommended that citizens stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, and wear light clothing.
Meteorologists attribute this extreme weather pattern to a combination of El Niño effects and climate change. El Niño, a climate phenomenon that warms the Pacific Ocean, often leads to hotter and drier conditions in India. Additionally, global warming has intensified heatwaves in recent years, making them more frequent and severe. The Indian government has urged state authorities to take preventive measures, including setting up cooling centers, ensuring an uninterrupted water supply, and issuing public advisories on heat safety.
The extreme heat poses severe health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, outdoor workers, and people with pre-existing health conditions. Heatstroke, dehydration, and respiratory illnesses are expected to rise, with hospitals preparing for an increase in heat-related emergencies. In urban areas, the heat could worsen air pollution, leading to higher risks of respiratory distress. Meanwhile, rural communities dependent on agriculture may suffer crop failures due to insufficient rainfall and extreme temperatures, threatening food security and farmer livelihoods.
