Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a stark warning ahead of the upcoming summer season, predicting above-normal temperatures and a significant increase in heatwave days across most parts of the country. The IMD’s forecast, released late Monday, suggests that India is in for an abnormally hot summer, largely due to the intensifying effects of climate change.
Traditionally, India experiences summer from April to June, with temperatures often exceeding 45°C at their peak. However, this year, the IMD anticipates a notable surge in both intensity and frequency of heatwaves, particularly in eastern India, where up to 10 or more heatwave days may occur—well above the usual 4 to 7 days.
Vulnerable Groups and Urban Risks
IMD chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stressed that the heat will disproportionately affect infants, the elderly, people with pre-existing health conditions, and outdoor workers. Urban areas, characterized by dense construction and heat-absorbing surfaces, will also face higher risks due to the urban heat island effect.
Heat stress, resulting from prolonged exposure to high temperatures, can cause dizziness, dehydration, headaches, organ failure, and even death.
Call for Heat Action Plans
The IMD has called for urgent heat action strategies, emphasizing the need for:
• Cooling centres for public relief
• Heat advisories and public alerts
• Urban planning to counteract heat island effects
• Protection measures for vulnerable populations
In 2023, India endured its longest-ever heatwave, with many regions consistently recording temperatures above 45°C. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that heat-related deaths exceed half a million annually, though the actual figure could be 30 times higher.
As global temperatures continue to rise, India’s battle with extreme weather is expected to grow more intense, highlighting the urgent need for climate resilience and public health preparedness.
