As the mercury climbs, so does our discomfort. On May 23rd, 2024, a sweltering heat enveloped Delhi, with temperatures at 41 degrees Celsius, but the scalding reality felt like 50 degrees. In the coming days, we may brace ourselves to withstand heat akin to 56 degrees Celsius. Officially, this exceeds the normal by just a degree, but the heat seems all but bearable.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has begun to take into account the 'feel-like temperature' or the Heat Index, which considers both temperature and relative humidity. This aims to present a more accurate depiction of summer's scorching embrace.
Feel-Like Heat Soars to 55.4 Degrees
Last year, the IMD initiated the calculation of the Heat Index on April 1st. Forecasts usually rely on maximum temperatures to predict heatwaves, yet the seasoned high this season in Delhi was no less than 55.4 degrees Celsius recorded the day before, and 50 degrees on the 23rd itself.
Humidity isn't the only contributor to the oppressive heat felt. The elusive wet-bulb temperature, while not officially announced in India, is an important metric that reflects the extreme conditions that can prove fatal. It's a combination of both temperature and humidity, making it crucial to understand the accompanying risks.
When can we expect an escape from this stifling heat?
Relief is anticipated to begin unfolding on the evening of May 25th, with the wind's direction shifting westward. The feel-like temperature is expected to show a slight decrease afterward.
Experts emphasize the importance of acclimating our habits to more sustainable living to mitigate the impact of such extreme weather conditions. It's about adapting to nature and taking precautions when necessary to endure the severity of climate change.
Understanding the Heat Index
The Heat Index is a measure that combines air temperature with relative humidity to depict how hot it actually feels. It's paramount to address both the Actual Temperature and the Humid Heatwave. Preparing for and recognizing the significance of this index during increasing global temperatures is essential for public health.
