The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning regarding the prevalence of a heatwave in various parts of India over the next two days, accompanied by heavy rainfall in certain regions. This forecast comes amidst concerns of extreme weather conditions impacting the country, particularly as the summer season progresses.
According to the IMD, the heatwave conditions are anticipated to affect isolated pockets across several states, including Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, North Karnataka, coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana on April 5 and 6. Furthermore, the northeast region is expected to experience intense rain and thunderstorms until April 9.
This announcement follows earlier projections by the IMD indicating an increase in the number of heatwave days during the summer months of April to June, particularly in central, northern plains, and southern India. Regions such as the central and western peninsular parts are expected to bear the brunt of extreme heat during this period.
In addition to the heatwave, heavy rainfall is forecasted in specific areas. Arunachal Pradesh is expected to experience significant rainfall from April 5 to 9, while Assam, Meghalaya, and Odisha are likely to receive heavy rainfall on April 5, 6, 7, and 8 respectively.
Union Minister of Earth Sciences, Kiren Rijiju, emphasized the need for precautions, especially with the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Discussions have been held with state governments to address the potential impact of the heatwave, and advisories have been issued accordingly. Rijiju highlighted the regions expected to be significantly affected, including West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka.
IMD Director General, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, pointed out that an extended duration of heatwave, ranging from 10 to 20 days, is expected across various parts of the country, surpassing the normal range of four to eight days.
Meanwhile, the IMD has also highlighted the likelihood of a heatwave in the east and peninsular regions of India over the next two days. In addition to the heatwave, significant rainfall is forecasted in parts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Gangetic West Bengal.
Preventive measures have been urged by Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, stressing the importance of public awareness to mitigate the adverse effects of heat-related illnesses. Amidst rising temperatures, reaching 40 to 42 degrees Celsius in several parts of the country, the risk of heatstroke has escalated, necessitating proactive measures to safeguard public health.
As the nation prepares for the forthcoming general elections, ensuring public participation while prioritizing health and safety remains a collective responsibility. With timely precautions and preparedness, the impact of the impending heatwave and associated weather phenomena can be effectively managed, safeguarding the well-being of citizens across the country.
