IMD Heatwave Alert For Next 2 Days: Essential Dos & Don'ts for Staying Safe

Heatwave Alert: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a concerning forecast for the upcoming summer, predicting heatwave conditions in various regions including Tamil Nadu, interior Karnataka, Telangana, Telangana, Odisha, Jharkhand, Gangetic West Bengal, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and Rayalaseema.

It’s only April, but temperatures have already started hitting their peak. The India Meteorological Department(IMD) on Saturday announced that certain parts of peninsular and eastern India, including Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, and others, may encounter heatwave conditions in the next two days. Meanwhile, Northeast India is forecasted to experience continued rainfall and thunderstorm activity over the next seven days. In contrast, parts of East India may face heatwave conditions today, with the trend expected to continue for the next two days before gradually easing in the peninsular region.

On Friday, maximum temperatures soared between 40-43 degrees Celsius in many areas, including Vidarbha and Odisha. These temperatures exceeded normal levels by 2-4 degrees Celsius in certain regions. Additionally, minimum temperatures were higher than usual by 3-5 degrees Celsius in some areas of Uttar Pradesh and isolated spots in Bihar, Gujarat Region, Madhya Maharashtra, West Bengal & Sikkim, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram & Tripura.

According to the IMD, hot and humid weather will persist across several regions, including Kerala & Mahe, coastal areas of Saurashtra & Kutch, Coastal Karnataka, Konkan & Goa, and Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, as well as Rayalaseema, from April 6th to 10th.

On April 7th, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) announced via X that heatwave conditions are expected to continue in parts of East India today and in peninsular India over the next two days before gradually easing.

What is a Heatwave?

A heatwave is defined by its potential threat to human health when air temperatures reach hazardous levels. This determination is based on specific temperature thresholds for a given region, considering both actual temperatures and deviations from normal. For plains, a heatwave is recognized when the maximum temperature reaches 40 degrees Celsius or higher, while in hilly regions, it’s deemed as such when temperatures hit 30 degrees Celsius or above.

Given the current weather conditions, the meteorological office advises precautionary measures, urging individuals to minimize heat exposure by opting for lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting cotton clothing, covering their heads, and using cloths, hats, or umbrellas for added protection from heatwaves.

During a heatwave alert in the country, it’s crucial to adhere to these dos and don’ts:

Dos:

Ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Opt for lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing to stay cool.
Seek shade or remain indoors during the hottest parts of the day to avoid excessive heat exposure.
Utilize fans, air conditioning, or cool showers to lower body temperature effectively.
Apply sunscreen with a high SPF before venturing outdoors to protect against harmful UV rays.
Choose light and refreshing meals, such as fruits and vegetables, to maintain energy levels without adding heat to the body.
Check-in on vulnerable individuals, including the elderly and children, to ensure they stay cool and hydrated.

Don’ts:

Never leave children or pets unattended in parked vehicles, especially during hot weather.
Avoid engaging in strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Refrain from consuming excessive amounts of caffeine or alcohol, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Steer clear of dark-colored clothing that absorbs heat, opting instead for lighter shades to reflect sunlight.
Don’t solely rely on fans for cooling in extremely high temperatures; seek out air-conditioned spaces when necessary.
Minimize the use of appliances that generate heat, such as ovens or dryers, during peak heat hours to reduce indoor temperatures.
Never ignore signs of heat-related illness, such as dizziness or nausea; promptly seek medical assistance if needed.

Quick Updates:

The latest updates and forecasts regarding heatwave conditions across India paint a picture of soaring temperatures and heightened risks. On Friday, maximum temperatures surged to 40-43°C across Vidarbha, Maharashtra, Odisha, and several other regions, marking an alarming deviation of 2-4°C from normal levels. Meanwhile, minimum temperatures spiked 3-5°C above average in select areas of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat Region, and more on Saturday.

Notably, Nandyal in Andhra Pradesh recorded the highest temperature at a scorching 43.7 degrees Celsius, closely followed by Bhubaneswar and Kurnool at 43.5 degrees Celsius, making them the second hottest cities. The intensifying heatwave prompted health concerns, with eight individuals in Odisha hospitalized for heat-related illnesses. Consequently, health authorities have issued guidelines and conducted training sessions for medical professionals to handle the surge in cases effectively.

Looking ahead, the weather department warns of continued heatwave conditions in isolated pockets of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Odisha, and other states throughout the weekend. Warm nights, characterized by temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, are expected in specific areas of Karnataka, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Odisha. Additionally, hot and humid conditions are forecasted for various coastal regions, including Kerala, Maharashtra, Saurashtra, Kutch, and more, until April 10. Similar conditions are anticipated in Odisha, West Bengal, Coastal Karnataka, Konkan, Goa, Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Yanam, and Rayalaseema during this period.