In a recent update from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), heatwave conditions are gradually easing across most parts of India, except for West Rajasthan and Kerala. An IMD official mentioned that the heatwave alert is expected to persist only in West Rajasthan due to increased thunderstorm activity fueled by moisture flow from the Bay of Bengal. This weather pattern could potentially lead to cloud-to-ground lightning in affected areas.
According to IMD scientist Soma Sen, “Heatwave is about to end from the entire country. Only in West Rajasthan & Kerala heatwave alert has been issued.” The IMD has issued a yellow alert specifically for West Rajasthan due to limited expectations of significant impact.
The current weather pattern is attributed to strong moisture flow from the Bay of Bengal, leading to increased thunderstorm activity across the country. Sen emphasized the possibility of cloud-to-ground lightning in these thunderstorms, highlighting the need for caution.
IMD defines a heatwave as a condition where the maximum temperature reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius for plains and at least 30 degrees Celsius for hilly regions. This condition can become fatal to the human body upon prolonged exposure.
In recent months, parts of Gangetic West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Telangana have experienced maximum temperatures settling 3-5 degrees Celsius above normal. Last week, temperatures soared above 44 degrees Celsius in at least 10 places in these states.
Earlier forecasts from the Met Department had indicated above-normal maximum temperatures for May, with a significantly high number of heatwave days expected over northern plains, central regions, and adjoining areas of peninsular India. April also witnessed record-breaking maximum temperatures in various regions, prompting health warnings and precautionary measures from government agencies.
The IMD’s data reveals that heatwaves in April 2024 were more severe compared to the same period in 2023, which was the warmest year on record until now. This underscores the ongoing challenge posed by extreme weather events and the importance of weather monitoring and preparedness measures.