The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in Kerala on May 20-21. Southern states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka are also expected to receive heavy rainfall in the coming days. Additionally, heatwaves are forecasted for Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh for the next five days, while Madhya Pradesh and Bihar will likely experience heatwaves for the next four days.
India’s beloved mango crop has been severely impacted by extreme weather events, leading to concerns about supply disruptions and skyrocketing prices in domestic markets. Excessive heatwaves and unseasonal rains have affected mango tree flowering, resulting in smaller fruit size and reduced yields. Despite the challenges, trade analysts believe that India’s mango exports will remain unaffected due to international demand and higher prices. The country remains the world’s largest mango producer, cultivating a diverse range of varieties across millions of hectares.
Hospitals across India are experiencing an unprecedented influx of patients suffering from heat-related illnesses, raising concerns as severe heatwaves continue to grip the country. Experts warn that the number of cases could rise further in the coming days. The India Meteorological Department has forecasted a higher-than-usual number of heatwave days in May across various states. Heatwaves can lead to potentially fatal health conditions, particularly when temperatures exceed 4.5 degrees Celsius above normal. Common heat-related illnesses include heatstroke, dehydration, skin infections, and exacerbation of underlying health conditions such as cardiovascular issues.
Amidst scorching heatwaves across India, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is closely monitoring the health impact on a national scale. The health ministry has trained district officials to identify and report health complications related to extreme heat. The NCDC has also advised states to establish task forces and implement heat-health action plans, which will be integrated into the State Action Plan for Climate Change and Human Health. The Union Health Minister has emphasized the significance of real-time data collection and timely action to minimize the adverse effects of heatwaves. The India Meteorological Department has conducted an analysis to assess vulnerability zones and forecast heatstroke patterns.
As heat waves become more frequent and intense due to climate change, the debate intensifies over whether to keep schools open or closed during these extreme conditions. While keeping schools open during heat waves raises concerns about student health, the consequences of school closures are equally concerning, such as widening learning gaps between developed and developing countries, and making children more vulnerable to exploitation. The decision of whether to close or open schools during heat waves has become a global challenge, requiring careful consideration by education authorities and public health experts.
Several states in India continue to experience intense heatwaves, with temperatures reaching as high as 45.6°C. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), no relief is expected anytime soon. Eastern and south India are likely to witness heatwaves for another five days, including Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, Rayalaseema, interior Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Konkan, and East Uttar Pradesh.
Despite ranking as the second warmest region in 2023, with an average temperature of 0.91°C above the 1991-2020 baseline, climate change remains largely absent from India’s election campaigns. Extreme weather events, including heatwaves, floods, and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), have impacted India, but political manifestos largely fail to address the issue comprehensively.
El Niño has subsided, bringing an end to its profound impact on global weather patterns. However, its lingering effects and the influence of climate change continue to pose significant challenges worldwide. From droughts and heatwaves to wildfires and crop failures, the phenomenon has left devastating consequences in its wake.
As summer heats up in East India, it’s crucial to stay cool and hydrated. Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water, limit sun exposure, and dress in light, loose-fitting clothing. Additionally, stay in air-conditioned spaces, eat light meals, and take cold showers after exercise.
According to the United Nations, climate-related disasters, primarily floods and storms, devastated Asia in 2023, causing numerous fatalities and severe economic losses. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) warns that heatwaves in the region are intensifying, threatening water security. Asia experienced a significant temperature increase of approximately two degrees Celsius last year compared to global average warming. The WMO emphasizes the urgency of addressing these climate challenges, especially through emission reductions and adaptation measures.
