The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a concerning forecast for May, indicating a possibility of above-normal temperatures across most regions of the country. According to the latest update from the IMD, many parts of India are anticipated to experience high temperatures, with the potential for an increase in the number of heatwave days by approximately two to eight days compared to historical averages.
Specifically, South Rajasthan, west Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Marathwada, and Gujarat are expected to face particularly intense conditions, with an estimated 5-8 additional heatwave days forecasted for May.
In addition to the heightened temperatures, the IMD also highlighted concerning trends observed in April. India's eastern and northeastern regions recorded an average minimum temperature of 22 degrees Celsius, the highest since 1901. This difference was attributed to a below-average frequency of thunderstorms in the area, intensifying the heat-related challenges faced by residents.
Similarly, the south peninsular region of India experienced a significant uptick in temperatures, with an average maximum temperature of 31 degrees Celsius in April, marking the second-highest since 1901. IMD Chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra noted that above-normal maximum temperatures have become increasingly frequent in this region since the 1980s, indicating a concerning long-term trend.
The IMD also highlighted extreme heatwaves in April, with Odisha experiencing its longest heatwave spell of 16 days since 2016. Additionally, Gangetic West Bengal and Odisha reported the highest number of heatwave days in 15 years and nine years, further emphasizing the severity of these regions' heat-related challenges.
The IMD's observations highlight the urgent need for proactive measures to address the escalating heatwave conditions across India.
