IMD issues severe heatwave warning for several regions across India
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe heatwave warning for several regions across the country, forecasting potentially record-breaking temperatures. In a recent interview with CNBC-TV18, IMD official DS Pai suggested that this year's peak temperatures could surpass the previous record set in 2023. Last week, Odisha experienced intense heatwave conditions with Jharsuguda reporting a high of 43.8 degrees Celsius.
Several areas in Odisha are grappling with extreme heat
Baripada in Odisha recorded a temperature of 43.6 degrees Celsius, Nuapada at 43.5 degrees Celsius, Talcher at 43.4 degrees Celsius, and Boudh at 43.2 degrees Celsius. The IMD predicts a likelihood of heatwaves in Bihar and Jharkhand over the next five days and similar conditions in peninsular India over the following week. The peak temperature is expected to rise significantly over the next four days.
Odisha to experience heatwaves from April 26 to 29
Manorama Mohanty, Director of the Meteorological Centre, announced that Odisha would continue to experience heatwaves from Friday to Monday. A severe heatwave red alert has been issued for nine districts, including Gajapati, Ganjam, Balasore, and Mayurbhanj. In West Bengal, harsh weather conditions have led to the rescheduling of summer holidays in government-run or aided schools due to dry westerly winds and strong solar insolation. Several private educational institutions have adapted by switching to online classes or adjusting their schedules.
Mumbai receives its second heat wave advisory
Meanwhile, Mumbai received its second heat wave advisory in two weeks, with the IMD expecting hot and humid weather to linger for the next few days. May is expected to bring heat wave conditions to Central and North Western India, due in part to the ongoing El Nino phenomenon. El Nino, a climate pattern in the Pacific Ocean, has the capacity to alter weather patterns by reducing trade winds and redistributing warm water along the Americas' west coast.
