Dehradun: The State Meteorological Department of Uttarakhand has issued a 'red alert' for severe heatwave conditions in several districts of the state on Saturday.The IMD anticipated that in the coming few days, the temperature can rise much higher than normal in hilly districts of the state and hence, has issued a warning for the scorching heat in Uttarkashi, Tehri, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Pithoragarh, Almora, Bageshwar, Nainital and Champawat districts of Uttarakhand from April 9 to April 12."This surge in temperature can also cause damage to the crops and vegetables," said Bikram Singh, a senior meteorologist. "The increased heat in the atmosphere is experienced due to forest fires in many areas of Uttarakhand, which has increased the risk of snow melting and avalanches in the area," it said."In Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Pithoragarh and Bageshwar districts, there is a suspected danger of avalanches due to melting of snow in the high Himalayan regions (more than 3500 metres), he added further.The department has advised the farmers to irrigate regularly to avoid crop damage due to the scorching sun.&nbsp;—ANI

The State Meteorological Department of Uttarakhand has issued a 'red alert' for severe heatwave conditions in several districts of the state on Saturday.

Uttarakhand: State Meteorological Department Issues Red Alert For Heatwave In Several Districts

New Delhi: As the heatwave intensifies in the country, so has the squabbling between the Centre and the states over power outages, with the latter claiming they have inadequate coal supply for electricity generation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Maharashtra, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh are facing some of the longest power cuts in the country.&nbsp;States claim that the Centre did not anticipate a sudden surge in power demand, which generally peaks towards the end of April but came earlier this year because of the heatwave sweeping the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;Another factor that has contributed to long power cuts is that several states are shying away from buying expensive power, owing to demand-supply mismatch.The global coal prices, as monitored by Markets Insider, were hovering around $326 per tonne on 22 April against $120 per tonne in January.&nbsp;For comparison, coal cost $50 a tonne in 2020, meaning that its price has gone up over six times in just over two years.&nbsp;Last week, several states urged the Centre to increase the coal supplied to them.&nbsp;Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar claimed inadequate coal supply forced him to consider alternatives to bridge the supply shortfall of around 3,500-4,000 MW. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to honour their Fuel Supply Agreement (FSA) and supply the promised 72,000 metric tonnes of coal a day to the Paradip and Visakhapatnam ports.A third important reason why power outages have become a burning issue is the inadequate supply to industries. For context, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra are among the most industralised states in the country.—ANI

As the heatwave intensifies in the country, so has the squabbling between the Centre and the states over power outages, with the latter claiming they have inadequate coal supply for electricity generation.   Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Maharashtra, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh are facing some of the longest power cuts in the country.  States claim that the Centre did not anticipate a sudden surge in power demand, which generally peaks towards the end of April but came earlier this year because of the heatwave sweeping the country.  

Severe Power Crisis Looms, Outages Across States

As the heatwave intensifies in the country, so has the squabbling between the Centre and the states over power outages, with the latter claiming they have inadequate coal supply for electricity generation.  
Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Maharashtra, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh are facing some of the longest power cuts in the country. 
States claim that the Centre did not anticipate a sudden surge in power demand, which generally peaks towards the end of April but came earlier this year because of the heatwave sweeping the country.  


 

Delhi: The India meteorological department has issued a yellow alert, warning of a fresh heatwave spell in Delhi which may see temperatures soaring to 44 degrees Celsius by Wednesday.The heatwave spell may continue till May 15 as a mitigating weather system is unlikely to affect northwest India over the next one week, weather experts said.Though there won't be a steep rise in temperatures in most parts of Delhi as easterly winds are prevailing in the region under the impact of cyclone Asani over the Bay of Bengal, the increase in humidity levels can cause discomfort, said Mahesh Palawat, vice president (meteorology and climate change), Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency.On Monday, the Safdarjung observatory, Delhi's base station, recorded a maximum temperature of 40 degrees Celsius, a notch above normal for this time of the year. The minimum temperature settled at 27.6 degrees Celsius.Back-to-back patchy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds had provided some respite from the intense heat last week.The mercury started creeping up on the weekend and hit the 42-degree mark at some places on Sunday.Delhi had witnessed a hot and dry March, gauging nil rainfall against the normal of 15.9 mm. It got 0.3 mm of rainfall in April against a monthly average of 12.2 mm.A heatwave at the month-end had sent the mercury soaring to 46 and 47 degrees Celsius in several parts of Delhi.—PTI

The India meteorological department has issued a yellow alert, warning of a fresh heatwave spell in Delhi which may see temperatures soaring to 44 degrees Celsius by Wednesday.

Heatwave to return to Delhi, temperature may touch 44 deg C

Delhi: As temperatures started soaring again in many parts of the country, the Ministry of Education on Wednesday issued protective guidelines to schools for combating ill-effects of heatwave, asking them to relax the uniform norms, restrict outdoor activities and modify timings.A torrid heatwave had sent the mercury soaring across large swathes of India with the temperature in Delhi rising to 46 degrees Celsius. The national capital also recorded its second hottest April in 72 years with a monthly average maximum temperature of 40.2 degrees Celsius.The guidelines by the Ministry of Education asked the schools to modify timings and reduce the number of school hours each day."School hours may start early and get over before noon. Timing may be from 7.00 AM onwards. Number of school hours per day may be reduced. Sports and other outdoor activities which expose students directly to the sunlight may be appropriately adjusted in the early morning."School assembly should be conducted in covered area or in classrooms with reduced timing. Similar care may be taken during dispersal after school is over," the guidelines said.The ministry has also advised schools to ensure that the school bus or van should not be over-crowded and should be parked in shaded area."It should not carry students more than the seating capacity. Drinking water and first aid kit should be available in the bus. Students coming to school on foot or bicycle should be advised to keep their head covered. Parents should be sensitised to pick-up the students themselves, to the extent possible, to avoid public transport and minimise their time out in the sun. School bus or van may be parked in a shaded area," it said.The guidelines stated that schools should ensure that all fans are functional and that all classrooms are properly ventilated."Availability of power back-up may be arranged, if possible. Curtains, blinds, newspaper, etc. may be used to stop the sunlight entering directly into the classroom. If any local traditional practices are being followed by the school to keep the surroundings cool such as 'khus' curtains, bamboo/jute chiks, they may be continued."Heat can spoil food therefore hot-cooked meals under PM POSHAN must be served hot and fresh. In-charge teacher may check the food before serving. Children carrying lunch box may be advised not to carry food that can turn stale quickly.Canteens in schools should ensure that fresh and healthy food is served. Children may be advised to have light food during lunch time," the guidelines said.The ministry also said that schools may relax norms about uniforms and canvas shoes may be allowed instead of leather ones."Students may be allowed to wear loose and light coloured cotton material dress. Schools may relax norms regarding uniform such as neck ties. Canvas shoes may be allowed instead of leather ones. Students may be advised to preferably wear full-sleeve shirt," it said.The India Meteorological Department had last week said a fresh spell of heatwave is likely to begin over northwest India from May 7 and over central India from May 8.However, closing schools due to heatwave is not an option as suggested by experts as offline classes have started from the new session after nearly two years due to the Covid pandemic.Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on May 5 chaired a meeting to review preparations for heatwave management and monsoon preparedness in which he stressed the need to take all measures to avoid deaths due to heatwave or fire incidents.—PTI

As temperatures started soaring again in many parts of the country, the Ministry of Education on Wednesday issued protective guidelines to schools for combating ill-effects of heatwave, asking them to relax the uniform norms, restrict outdoor activities and modify timings.

Relax uniform norms, modify timings: Govt's guidelines schools amid heatwave

New Delhi: &nbsp;A fresh spell of heatwave is likely to sweep the national capital on Friday with the maximum temperature likely to touch 44 degrees celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).The minimum temperature settled at 28.1 which is three notches above normal.The relative humidity at 8:30 was recorded at 62 per cent, the weather office said.The city air quality was recorded in the moderate category. The AQI was 158 at 9:47 am, according to the data from SAFAR-India Air Quality Service.An AQI between zero and 50 is considered good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor, and 401 and 500 severe.The IMD has issued a yellow alert, warning of a heatwave at most places in the capital on Friday and Saturday.An orange alert has been issued to caution people about a severe heatwave on Sunday.The IMD uses four colour codes -- green (no action needed), yellow (watch and stay updated), orange (be prepared) and red (take action)-- for weather warning.The maximum is predicted to touch the 45-degree mark at the Safdarjung Observatory on Sunday. Temperatures may leap to 46-47 degrees Celsius at isolated places, weather experts said.A heatwave spell was predicted over Delhi from Sunday last, but easterly winds prevailing in the national capital under the impact of Cyclone Asani shielded the city against it.Back-to-back patchy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds had provided some respite from the intense heat last week.Delhi had witnessed a hot and dry March, gauging nil rainfall against the normal of 15.9 mm. It got 0.3 mm of rainfall in April against a monthly average of 12.2 mm.—PTI

A fresh spell of heatwave is likely to sweep the national capital on Friday with the maximum temperature likely to touch 44 degrees celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Minimum temperature in city settles above normal

A fresh spell of heatwave is likely to sweep the national capital on Friday with the maximum temperature likely to touch 44 degrees celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).



New Delhi: &nbsp;A heatwave spell scorching Delhi for the last two days is predicted to worsen on Saturday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing an 'orange' alert, warning that the mercury may soar to 46-47 degrees Celsius in parts of the city.The maximum temperature at the Safdarjung Observatory, Delhi's base station, is predicted to settle at 44 degrees Celsius as against 42.5 degrees Celsius on Friday.Delhi on Friday saw the mercury rise to 46.1 degrees Celsius at Najafgarh. The weather stations at Jafarpur and Mungeshpur had recorded maximum temperatures of 45.6 degrees Celsius and 45.4 degrees Celsius, respectively, six notches above normal for this time of the year.Pitampura also reeled under heatwave conditions, recording a maximum temperature of 44.7 degrees Celsius.A 'yellow' alert has been issued to caution people about a heatwave on Sunday.The IMD uses four colour codes for weather warnings -- green (no action needed), yellow (watch and stay updated), orange (be prepared) and red (take action).Cloudy skies and thunder may provide some relief from the intense heat next week.This is the fifth heatwave -- one in March and three in April -- in the capital this summer season.With scanty rains owing to feeble western disturbances, Delhi had recorded its second hottest April this year since 1951 with a monthly average maximum temperature of 40.2 degrees Celsius. A heatwave at the month-end had sent the mercury soaring to 46 and 47 degrees Celsius in several parts of the city.The capital got a miniscule 0.3 mm of rainfall in April against a monthly average of 12.2 mm. March saw nil rainfall against a normal of 15.9 mm. The IMD had predicted above normal temperatures in May.A heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature is over 40 degrees Celsius and at least 4.5 notches above normal. A severe heatwave is declared if the departure from normal temperature is more than 6.4 notches, according to the IMD.Based on absolute recorded temperatures, a heatwave is declared when an area logs a maximum temperature of 45 degrees Celsius.A severe heatwave is declared if the maximum temperature crosses the 47-degree Celsius mark.—PTI

 A heatwave spell scorching Delhi for the last two days is predicted to worsen on Saturday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing an 'orange' alert, warning that the mercury may soar to 46-47 degrees Celsius in parts of the city.

Severe heatwave warning for parts of Delhi

 A heatwave spell scorching Delhi for the last two days is predicted to worsen on Saturday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing an 'orange' alert, warning that the mercury may soar to 46-47 degrees Celsius in parts of the city.



New Delhi: Battered by hot and dry westerly winds, Delhi may see the ongoing heatwave spell peak on Sunday with the maximum temperature predicted to settle above 46 degrees Celsius in many areas, weather forecasters said.The maximum temperature at the Safdarjung Observatory, Delhi's base station, is likely to rise to 45 degrees Celsius.The primary weather station had recorded a maximum temperature of 44.2 degrees Celsius on Saturday, which was the highest this year so far.It was 42.5 degrees Celsius on Friday. Delhi on Saturday saw the maximum rise to 46.9 degrees Celsius at Sports Complex, 46.4 degrees Celsius at Pitampura, 45.8 degrees Celsius at Jafarpur and 45.4 degrees Celsius at Ridge and Ayanagar.The heatwave had pushed the maximum temperature to an unbearable high of 47.2 degrees Celsius at Mungeshpur and 47 degrees Celsius at Najafgarh.Weather forecasters said the heatwave spell would worsen on Sunday."Hot and dry westerly winds sweeping the Delhi-NCR region will push the maximum further up.&nbsp;It is likely to hit the 45-degree mark at Safdarjung on Sunday," said Mahesh Palawat, Vice President (Meteorology and Climate Change), Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency.An 'orange' alert has been issued to caution people about a severe heatwave.The IMD uses four colour codes -- green (no action needed), yellow (watch and stay updated), orange (be prepared) and red (take action)-- for weather warning.It said the heatwave could lead to 'moderate' health concerns for vulnerable people -- infants, elderly, people with chronic diseases -- in affected areas.'Hence people of these regions should avoid heat exposure, wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose, cotton clothes and cover the head by use of cloth, hat or umbrella etc,' the Met office said.'A cyclonic circulation over Punjab and Haryana will induce pre-monsoon activity which will provide some relief from the intense heat on Monday and Tuesday,' Palawat said.The IMD said a thunderstorm or a dust storm is likely in the national capital on Monday.With scanty rains owing to feeble Western Disturbances, Delhi had recorded its second hottest April this year since 1951 with a monthly average maximum temperature of 40.2 degrees Celsius.A heatwave at the end of that month had sent the maximum soaring to 46 and 47 degrees Celsius in several parts of New Delhi.Delhi received a minuscule 0.3 mm of rainfall in April against a monthly average of 12.2 mm.March saw no rainfall against a normal of 15.9 mm.The IMD had predicted above-normal temperatures in May.A heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature is over 40 degrees Celsius and at least 4.5 notches above the normal.A severe heatwave is declared if the departure from normal temperature is more than 6.4 notches, according to the IMD.Based on absolute recorded temperatures, a heatwave is declared when an area logs a maximum temperature of 45 degrees Celsius. A severe heatwave is declared if the maximum temperature crosses the 47-degree Celsius mark.—PTI

Battered by hot and dry westerly winds, Delhi may see the ongoing heatwave spell peak on Sunday with the maximum temperature predicted to settle above 46 degrees Celsius in many areas, weather forecasters said.

Delhi: Heatwave to peak today before easing

New Delhi: Indian Meteorological Department Senior Scientist RK Jenamani on Monday said that the heatwave prevailing in the national capital and other north Indian states will abate from tomorrow for the next four days. Speaking to ANI, Jenamani said, "Yesterday's heatwave was the most severe. The peak is over. Today we are having a trend of 3 to 4 degrees fall over Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Madhya Pradesh." "In Delhi, Safdarjung may record a max temperature of 43 degrees Celsius. As the western disturbance further comes, the heatwave will be abated by tomorrow over a large area," he added.Calling the temperature in March "unusual" this year, the scientist said that the month recorded the highest all-India temperature in 122 years. "In April, the 3rd-highest temperature was recorded but NW India continues to be the warmest in 122 years. In May, the first 10 days were good. So, I don't think it'll be very unusual this month," he said. The scientist, however, predicted, "If the climate record of Safdarjung-Palam is seen, the highest temperature recorded in May is more than 48 degrees Celsius and the highest in Safdarjung is 47.2 degrees Celsius. So, I don't think anything extreme has come." "Up to the next 4 days from May 17 onwards, there will be no heatwave over any area. UP to May 11, there was no significant heatwave except in West Rajasthan.This was mainly because of Asani Cyclone that the heatwave was suppressed, but from 12th onwards, it intensified," he added.Noting that May 13, 14, and 15 recorded a peak in the national capital, he said that a few stations in Delhi witnessed more than 45 degrees temperature also."We all know that on 13, 14, and 15 Delhi was having a peak of more than 45 degrees temperature. One of the two stations of Delhi also recorded a max temperature of 49 degrees like Najafgarh and Mungeshpur. They are urban stations and can not be compared with other stations and records also," he said. The scientist also informed the Monsoon has arrived in Andaman sea and adjoining the southeast Bay of Bengal today. "We have given Kerala predictions. It will be around 27 May. So, as per the progress, it is all monitoring. The very significantly east coast is not having any high temperatures," he said.—ANI

Indian Meteorological Department Senior Scientist RK Jenamani on Monday said that the heatwave prevailing in the national capital and other north Indian states will abate from tomorrow for the next four days.

Relief from tomorrow, no heatwave for next four days in Delhi: IMD

New Delhi: A heatwave seared Delhi on Friday before thundershowers and gusty winds brought some respite towards the evening. Delhi's primary weather station, Safdarjung Observatory, recorded a maximum temperature of 44.4 degrees Celsius, five notches above normal. It had logged a high of 45.6 degrees Celsius on Sunday, the highest so far this year.The mercury jumped to 47.5 degrees Celsius at Najafgarh in southwest Delhi and 47.1 degrees Celsius at Mungeshpur in the northwestern parts of the city. The weather stations at Pitampura, Sports Complex, Jafarpur, Ridge and Palam saw the mercury leaping to 47 degrees Celsius, 46.2 degrees Celsius, 46.1 degrees Celsius, 46 degrees Celsius, 45.7 degrees Celsius and 45.1 degrees Celsius respectively. A partly cloudy sky, a drizzle and hail brought temporary relief to some parts of the city in the evening. A cyclonic circulation persisting over Punjab and Haryana will lead to intermittent thundershowers on Saturday, weather forecasters said. A fresh western disturbance will lead to rain and thunderstorms in northwest India starting Sunday. As a result, the maximum temperature in Delhi will drop to 37 degrees Celsius by Tuesday. ''Back-to-back western disturbances will continue to give intermittent respite from the heat. No heatwave is likely for a week,'' said Mahesh Palawat, vice-president (meteorology and climate change) at Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency. On Sunday, Delhi saw a tormenting heatwave pushing the mercury to 49.2 degrees Celsius at Mungeshpur and 49.1 degrees Celsius at Najafgarh.—PTI

A heatwave seared Delhi on Friday before thundershowers and gusty winds brought some respite towards the evening.

Showers, thunder end hot day in Delhi; no heatwave predicted

New Delhi: Delhi witnessed a warm Thursday morning with the minimum temperature being recorded at 28 degrees Celsius even as the weather office predicted that heatwave conditons will persist during the day.The weather office said that city residents are likely to get respite from the heatwave towards the weekend.The city is likely to witness a heatwave on Thursday. The maximum temperature of the day is likely to hover around 44 degrees Celsius, an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.A heat wave is declared when the maximum temperature is over 40 degrees Celsius and at least 4.5 notches above normal.A severe heatwave is declared if the departure from the normal temperature is by more than 6.4 notches, according to the IMD.The maximum temperature on Wednesday has settled at 44 degrees Celsius, four notches above the season's average.The relative humidity at 8.30 am was 33 per cent, the weather office said.Many parts of Delhi recorded a heatwave for the sixth consecutive day on Wednesday, even as the IMD said some respite is expected in the next two days.Four out of the 11 weather stations in Delhi had recorded a heatwave on Tuesday.—PTI

 Delhi witnessed a warm Thursday morning with the minimum temperature being recorded at 28 degrees Celsius even as the weather office predicted that heatwave conditons will persist during the day.

No respite from scorching heat in city

Copenhagen: As the Europe reels from the effects of a prolonged heatwave responsible for a series of ferocious wildfires and escalating record-breaking high temperatures, regional governments have been urged by the World Health Organization (WHO) to implement the Paris climate agreement, whose position has been reinforced "as a health treaty" by the COP26 Health Programme."Governments need to demonstrate political will and genuine leadership in implementing the global Paris Agreement on climate change, with collaboration replacing division and empty rhetoric," WHO Regional Director for Europe Hans Kluge said in a statement on Friday.According to Kluge, 1,700 people have died as a result of the current heatwave in Spain and Portugal, and wildfires have spread from southern Europe to as far north as Scandinavia, reports Xinhua news agency.This week, with the "scorching summer season barely halfway done", fires in London have destroyed 41 homes, he added."Ultimately, this week's events point yet again to the desperate need for pan-European action to effectively tackle climate change, the overarching crisis of our time that is threatening both individual health and the very existence of humanity."In reaction to the extreme effects of the current heatwave, the WHO has issued guidance support for national and local authorities "to save lives and strengthen the resilience of communities and people to cope during extreme heat".The WHO guidance recommended basic steps that everyone should take to safeguard themselves and their loved ones from the heat, including keeping out of the heat as much as possible during the night as well; avoiding strenuous physical activity and ensuring children and animals are not left in parked vehicles; and seeking medical advice if one is suffering from a chronic condition or taking multiple medications.Furthermore, Kluge reiterated the UN Climate Change Conference's call for "health systems to assume their share of the responsibility to step up their resilience to, and fight against, climate change", arguing that coordinated action on multiple fronts will "strengthen environmental health and reverse the ravages of climate change". —IANS

As the Europe reels from the effects of a prolonged heatwave responsible for a series of ferocious wildfires and escalating record-breaking high temperatures, regional governments have been urged by the World Health Organization (WHO) to implement the Paris climate agreement, whose position has been reinforced "as a health treaty" by the COP26 Health Programme.

 Heatwave in Europe underscores need for effective action to combat climate change: WHO

Paris: France is currently reeling under a third heatwave of this summer season, with temperatures soaring to 38-41 degrees Celsius, weather officials said. The heatwave, which began on July 31 and mainly concerned the Mediterranean regions until the beginning of the week, has now spread to the southwest and the Atlantic coast, reports Xinhua news agency citing Meteo-France, the country's national meteorological service, as saying.
Although less intense than the heatwaves in June and July, the current soaring temperatures have lasted longer on a national scale, it added.
The country experienced a historic deficit of rain in July, with barely any notable precipitation at the beginning of August except for a few thunderstorms, particularly in the Alps, Corsica, and the Pyrenees.
Therefore, this new rise in temperatures will further aggravate an already intense soil drought across a large part of the country, warned Meteo-France.
On a national level, since July 17 France has set a new daily record for soil drought since records began in August 1958.
In the southeast of the country, this extreme drought began even earlier.
The daily record has been broken every day since the beginning of July in Corsica, and since mid-May in the Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur region.
As of August 8, the soil drought situation is affecting the entire territory of Metropolitan France, which constitutes a major event comparable to the droughts of 1976 and 2003, according to Meteo-France.&nbsp;
—IANS

France is currently reeling under a third heatwave of this summer season, with temperatures soaring to 38-41 degrees Celsius, weather officials said.

 France suffers third heatwave

New Delhi: Heatwave conditions are likely in some isolated places in Delhi on Saturday as the maximum temperature in the national capital increased to 39.4 degrees Celsius a day earlier, three notches above normal.

This was the highest maximum temperature recorded so far this season.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Sports Complex near Akshardham was the hottest station at 41.9 degrees Celsius.

Pitampura and Faridabad followed with maximum temperatures settling at 41.4 and 41.3 degrees Celsius, respectively.

"Najafgarh and Ridge recorded 40.8 degrees Celsius and Pusa saw 40.3 degrees Celsius. Lodhi Road, Ayanagar, and Palam reported 39.4, 39.1, and 39 degrees Celsius, respectively," according to IMD.

The IMD has issued a 'yellow' alert for Saturday.

While the maximum temperature at the Safdarjung Observatory is expected to be around 41 degrees Celsius for the next three days, it may touch 42-43 degrees Celsius in other stations.

"The public is advised to take precautions and stay hydrated during the hot weather," said an IMD official. IANS

Delhi braces for heatwave as temperatures soar to season's highest at 39.4 degrees

New Delhi: Human-caused climate change made April's record-breaking humid heatwave in India, Bangladesh, Laos, and Thailand at least 30 times more likely, a rapid attribution analysis by an international team of leading climate scientists as part of the World Weather Attribution group said on Wednesday.
The study also concludes that the high vulnerability in the region, which is one of the world's heatwave hotpots, amplified the impacts.
In April, parts of south and southeast Asia experienced an intense heatwave, with record-breaking temperatures that passed 42 degrees Celsius in Laos and 45 degrees in Thailand. The heat caused widespread hospitalisations, damaged roads, sparked fires and led to school closures.
The number of deaths remains unknown.
Across the world, climate change has made heatwaves more common, longer, and hotter. To quantify the effect of climate change on the Asian heatwave, scientists analysed weather data and computer model simulations to compare the climate as it is today, after about 1.2 degrees of global warming since the late 1800s, with the climate of the past, following peer-reviewed methods.
The analysis looked at the average maximum temperature and maximum values of a heat index for four consecutive days in April across two regions, one covering south and east India and Bangladesh, and a second one including all of Thailand and Laos.
The heat index is a measure that combines temperature and humidity and reflects more accurately the impacts of heatwaves on the human body.
In both regions, the researchers found that climate change made the humid heatwave at least 30 times more likely, with temperatures at least 2 degrees hotter than they would have been without climate change. Until overall greenhouse gas emissions are halted, global temperatures will continue to increase and events like this will become more frequent and severe.
In India and Bangladesh, events like the recent humid heatwave used to occur less than once a century on average; they can now be expected around once in five years, and if temperature rise reaches 2 degrees -- as will happen within around 30 years if emissions are not cut rapidly -- events like this will occur, on average, at least once every two years.
In Laos and Thailand, the scientists found that an event like the recent record humid heatwave would have been nearly impossible without the influence of climate change, and it is still a very unusual event that can only be expected around once in 200 years, even with the influence of human-caused climate change.
But if temperature rise reaches 2 degrees, it will become much more common, occurring about once in 20 years.
While high temperatures are the norm in south and southeast Asia, early heatwaves such as this one are particularly damaging. People who are most exposed to the sun and vulnerable populations are routinely the worst impacted. The current patchwork of heatwave solutions must be improved to account for inequalities and existing vulnerabilities, the scientists said, adding that heat action plans should be inclusive and comprehensive, and ensure access to basic services, such as water, electricity and healthcare.
The study was conducted by 22 researchers as part of the World Weather Attribution initiative, including scientists from universities and meteorological agencies in India, Thailand, Australia, Denmark, France, Germany, Kenya, the Netherlands, the UK, and the US.
Chandra Sekhar Bahinipati of the Indian Institute of Technology, Tirupati, said: "Although we have recognised heatwaves as one of the deadliest disasters, particularly in countries like India, Bangladesh, and Thailand, there is a lack of knowledge with respect to who is vulnerable, loss and damage estimation, household coping mechanisms, and the most effective heat action plans.
Except for the human casualties, other economic and non-economic loss and damage indicators are not documented.
"This creates a dearth in assessing the extent of risk, who is vulnerable, and also operationalising any adaptation planning." —IANS

Human-caused climate change made April's record-breaking humid heatwave in India, Bangladesh

India's April Heatwaves Were '30 Times More Likely' Due Of Climate Change: Scientists

Varanasi: Located on the banks of the Holy Ganges, Varanasi witnessed scorching summer as the temperature soared above 40 degrees Celsius. Health experts advised the residents to stay hydrated to battle the blazing heat wave. While talking to ANI, the Chief Medical Officer of Varanasi, Sandeep Chaudhary said, "Drink lots of water, eat proper nutritious food while moving out of the house. Make sure to cover your hands with full sleeves and face with scarves. Stay hydrated as much as possible. Drink lemonade, buttermilk or 'Shikanji' (spiced lemonade) instead of aerated drinks." A heatwave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, more than the normal maximum temperature that occurs during the summer season in the North-Western parts of India, according to National Disaster Management Authority. Heatwaves typically occur between March and June, and in some rare cases even extend till July. As of now, schools have been closed in Maharashtra, Odisha and West Bengal due to heat wave conditions. In northern states, the temperature is soaring but there is respite due to Western disturbances from time to time. Heat waves affect the Northern states of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan generally in the month of May and June. While talking to ANI, Senior Consultant Physician &amp; Endocrinologist from Madhukar Rainbow Children's Hospital Dr Sharwari Dabhade Dua, said, "A steady rise in temperature and environmental changes has led to very hot and humid summers since past few years. This rise is only getting worse with coming years." "Our body has the ability to maintain the temperature via dissipation of heat, in the form of perspiration. However, extreme heat and humidity affect this acclimatization leading to heat stroke," Dr Dua added. "Certain pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure, heart failure, obesity, diabetes, and kidney disease can cause a higher risk of heat stroke. Children and old age people get affected more. In such cases, adequate hydration with electrolytes like sodium and proper air conditioning is advised to cool the body temperature. Minor symptoms need to be watched before they get severe. Immediate hospitalisation is advised in case of loss of consciousness, chest pain, decreased urination and severe fatigue," Dr Dua further stated. Meanwhile, the Director of Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital (LNJP) Hospital, Dr Suresh Kumar said, "These days the temperature is reaching near 40 degrees and when the temperature crosses or is near 40 degrees. There is a lack of water in the body which is called dehydration. It is important that we take as much liquid as possible, like coconut water, juice, lassi, and more water etc." "Whenever you are going out of the house these days, keep a water bottle with you, as well as keep your head covered while going in the sun. And try not to stay in the Sun for too long as it can lead to dehydration. Also, it can cause problems like heat stroke, and dizziness," Dr Kumar further said. "Due to lack of water in the body, sweating stops and there is a deficiency of sodium, potassium etc. in the body, which affects our brain and heart," the doctor added. —ANI

 Located on the banks of the Holy Ganges, Varanasi witnessed scorching summer as the temperature soared above 40 degrees Celsius

As Varanasi Witnesses Blazing Heatwaves, Health Experts Advise Precautions

Lucknow: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning for 18 districts in Uttar Pradesh for the next 48 hours (Sunday and Monday), an IMD official said. The IMD said that the day temperature in these places will cross above 40 degrees Celsius. Thereafter, it will rain from Tuesday evening for five days in isolated places, both in east and west Uttar Pradesh. The districts that will be in the grip of the heatwave are Banda, Chitrakoot, Kaushambi, Prayagraj, Fatehpur, Sonbhadra, Mirzapur, Mathura, Agra, Firozabad, Etawah, Auraiya, Jalaun, Hamirpur, Mahoba, Jhansi, Lalitpur and the adjoining areas. Lucknow Met office in-charge, Mohd Danish, said that heat wave conditions had prevailed in 12 out of the 18 districts mentioned above on Saturday as well. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for these 18 districts. The IMD uses four-colour codes for weather warnings -- green (no action needed), yellow (watch and stay updated), orange (be prepared) and red (take action). A heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature is 40 degrees Celsius or higher, or remains 4.5 degrees above normal over two consecutive days. The day temperature in Uttar Pradesh districts went up by 3.5 degrees Celsius above normal on Saturday. Jhansi was the hottest in the state with the day temperature soaring to 45.1 degrees Celsius, Prayagraj 44.8, Agra and Varanasi (BHU) 43, Kanpur 42.3, Lakhimpur Kheri, Fursatganj and Orai 42 degrees Celsius. Lucknow recorded maximum and minimum temperatures of 40.1 and 24.4 degrees Celsius, respectively. Mainly clear sky is forecast for the state capital. The heatwave warning comes when most schools in the state are closed for summer vacations, including government primary and upper primary schools. The monsoon enters India around June 1. It arrives in Uttar Pradesh between June 18 and 20 through eastern districts like Ballia and Gorakhpur. Meanwhile, as the heat poses a major health risk between 12 noon and 4.30 p.m., when the day temperature remains the highest, doctors said going outdoors during these hours should be avoided, if possible. N.S. Verma, senior faculty, King George's Medical University (KGMU), said, "Try to keep outdoor work limited in these hours at least until the monsoon hits the region and humidity levels go up and the temperature falls a little." P.K. Gupta, former president of Indian Medical Association, Lucknow branch, said, "Ensure your water intake is frequent all through the day. While going out of the house, drink an extra glass of water, cover your head with cap/cotton cloth if using public transport or helmet if using a bike. If you go out in a car, do not use air conditioning till the very end of your journey." Abhishek Shukla, an expert in geriatric medicine and head of Aastha Hospice, advised, "Keep the car AC low to ensure there is no big difference in the temperature outside (the car) and inside. Switch off AC and open the window a minute before reaching the destination. If there are elderly people travelling in a car, avoid using the AC on maximum mode, as this could disturb the body temperature quickly." —iANS

 The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning for 18 districts in Uttar Pradesh

Heatwave In 18 UP Districts Till Monday: IMD

Patna (Bihar): The Patna District Magistrate has suspended all academic activities up to Class 12 in Patna due to the ongoing heat wave. The order will remain effective till June 24. "In continuation to the order vide memo no .8274/L dated 11.06.2023 Whereas, it has been made to appear to me that due to prevalent heat wave and prevailing high temperature in the district, health and life of children are at risk. Therefore, I, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Singh, District Magistrate, Patna under section 144 of Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 do hereby prohibit the academic activities of all the Private, Government schools (Including Pre-school and Anganwari Center) of Patna District up to Class- XII till 24.06.2023." read the Patna District Magistrate's circular. "The order as mentioned above will come into force w.e.f. 19.06.2023 and will remain effective till 24.06.2023. This order has been passed on 16.06.2023 under my signature and the seal of the court," the circular further read. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts for some districts for the next two days. Earlier on Tuesday, the IMD issued an orange alert for the next five days. IMD scientist Naresh Kumar said on Tuesday, "In Delhi, Punjab and Haryana, the temperature may reach near 40-45 in the coming days. The heat wave is continuing in Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. An orange alert has been issued in these parts for the coming five days." On Wednesday, the Jharkhand government announced that all schools (up to Class 8) in the state will remain closed till June 17 adding that for Classes 9 to 12, it will remain closed till June 15 in lieu of intense heatwave in the State. In a circular notification issued by School Education and Literacy Department, Jharkhand Government, it said, "While making partial amendments and due to excessive heat in the state of Jharkhand and keeping in mind the heat, all categories of government-run in the state, Unaided/Unaided (including Minorities) and all from class KG to class 8 in private schools, Date - June 17 (Saturday) will remain closed and classes from class 9 to 12 till June 15." The notification further mentioned that the education department would also make a decision regarding the loss of study for the students for the given period. "To make up for the loss in the children's education during this period a separate decision in this regard will be communicated. This order will come into force with immediate effect," it mentioned. —ANI

The Patna District Magistrate has suspended all academic activities up to Class 12 in Patna due to the ongoing heat wave

Schools In Patna To Remain Closed Till June 24 As Heatwave Looms

Patna: On Saturday, a government official reported that at least 27 people died in the state of Bihar due to the extreme heatwave that had sent temperatures rising beyond 40 degrees Celsius in most areas.

Due to the heat wave, six people have died in the district of Bhojpur, four each in Rohtas, Banka, and Arwal, three in Aurangabad, and one each in Nalanda, Jamui, Jahanabad, Bhagalpur, Gaya, and Patna.

The high temperature in Patna was 44.7 degrees Celsius on Saturday. Sheikhpura was the hottest place in the state, with a temperature of 45.1 degrees Celsius.

According to the Met Department, the current heat wave is expected to last for another day.

On Saturday, the latest casualties were reported at Sasaram railway station where two people died due to the heat wave.

One passenger passed away on platform 7 while waiting for a train, while another passed away near the station's entry gate.

Meanwhile, all educational institutions in the Patna district have been ordered closed until June 24 by the District Magistrate.—Inputs from Agencies

On Saturday, a government official reported that at least 27 people died in the state of Bihar due to the extreme heatwave that had sent temperatures rising beyond 40 degrees Celsius in most areas

Bihar heatwave kills 27

Lucknow: As the toll in deaths due to heat goes up to 54 in Uttar Pradesh's Ballia district, deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, who also holds the health portfolio, said on Sunday that the government has sent two senior doctors to assess the ground situation there.  In a video statement, the minister said that the chief medical superintendent of Ballia had been removed for giving an 'irresponsible statement'.  The chief medical superintendent of Ballia district hospital, Diwakar Singh had stated "Increased heat poses a problem for all. But in such weather conditions, the problem increases more for the people suffering from diseases like blood pressure, bronchial asthma, as these ailments aggravate."  While 23 people died on June 15, 11 others died till the afternoon of June 16, a statement issued by the district health department had said.  Doctors have said that though there are different reasons for the deaths, severe heat could be a factor. Hospitalisations are rising because of severe heat, officials said. A severe heatwave has swept the state, with most places seeing temperatures north of 40 degrees.  The sudden increase in deaths and patients being admitted to hospitals with fever, breathing trouble, and other issues have overwhelmed the hospital, which has put its staff on alert.  Dr B.P. Tiwari, Additional Health Director, Azamgarh Circle, has said a team is coming from Lucknow to investigate if there's some disease which is not being detected. When it is too hot or cold, respiratory patients, diabetes patients, and blood pressure patients are at increased risk. The mercury rising a little may have led to their deaths, Dr Tiwari speculated.  A massive rush is being reported at the district hospital and patients are unable to get stretchers and many attendants are carrying their patients to the emergency ward on their shoulders.  The Additional Health Director has, however, claimed that it gets difficult if ten patients turn up at the same time, but they do have stretchers.  The deputy chief minister, meanwhile, denied that there was any shortage of facilities in the government hospitals. —IANS

As the toll in deaths due to heat goes up to 54 in Uttar Pradesh's Ballia district, deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak

Heatwave death toll rises to 54 in UP's Ballia

New Delhi: According to government sources, on Tuesday the Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will preside over a high-level conference to examine public health preparations in light of the heatwave conditions affecting sections of the nation.
Experts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) will also be present at the 11:30 a.m. meeting, along with Niti Aayog member (Health) Dr. V K Paul and the director general of the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR), Dr. Rajiv Bahl.
Several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Odisha, have recorded deaths from heat stroke in recent days.—Inputs from Agencies

According to government sources, on Tuesday the Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will preside over a high-level conference to examine public health preparations in light of the heatwave conditions affecting sections of the nation.

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