The weather is steadily heating up with temperatures on the rise. India's Meteorological Department (IMD) continuously issues heatwave alerts in different regions. The current alert pertains to the climate of Chandigarh, Punjab, and Haryana, with temperatures possibly soaring to 43-47 degrees Celsius.
The IMD has clearly stated that individuals should avoid going out during the day. It is recommended to wear cotton clothes, stay covered, keep hydrated, and seek medical attention if any issues arise. Despite these annual warnings, many still fall victim to heatwaves.
Read More: Mexico's Heatwave: Rare howler monkeys falling from trees due to terrifying heat, 85 dead so far, president takes action
The IMD predicts that this blistering weather will continue for the next seven days. Temperatures will rise sharply, posing serious threats. From 2015 to 2023, heatwave-related deaths in the country have totaled 4057.
Source: aajtak
Elections Under Heat Stress
Nationwide general elections are underway, and the scorching heat is affecting voter turnout. The government and opposition parties are concerned. Last weekend, temperatures hit a peak of 46 degrees Celsius, with the IMD issuing 'red' alerts for heatwaves.
Read More: Hottest Year 2024: Betraying weather patterns, soaring temperatures... Scientists predict this year could break all heat records
The Underlying Cause of Rising Heat
India typically has three months of intense heat: April, May, and June. During this period, most regions experience severe temperatures, followed by the monsoon season when the heat subsides. However, the past decade has seen a disturbing increase in heat levels, coinciding with a growing water scarcity.
Source: aajtak
South Asia's Mercury Levels 0.85 Degrees Higher
A study by the World Weather Attribution indicates that due to climate change, some Asian regions, including India, face heatwaves 45 times more frequently in April. As a result, pre-monsoon temperatures in South Asia have risen by an average of 0.85 degrees Celsius over the last decade.
Heatwave Deaths Began in April
Due to the heatwave, there were 5 deaths in India and 28 in Bangladesh in April alone. Similar fatalities were reported from Thailand and the Philippines. In India, the sweltering heat has become a public health concern, with estimates suggesting that heatwaves have caused approximately 11,000 deaths in the past century.
