PATNA: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning that parts of Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Bihar may experience heatwave conditions during the next three to four days. The IMD’s forecast comes on the heels of its earlier prediction of above-normal maximum temperatures for most of the country from April to June, with the exception of the northwest and peninsular areas.
According to news agency PTI, much of central, eastern, and northwest India should expect above-normal temperatures during this period. At present, maximum temperatures in central and northern peninsular India vary from 40 to 42 degrees Celsius. The IMD has warned that maximum temperatures are three to five degrees Celsius above average in various sections of the western Himalayan region and northeast India, including West Bengal, Sikkim, Odisha, coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala.
Heat wave conditions likely over Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Bihar.@ndmaindia pic.twitter.com/pFSS2JWidk
— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) April 13, 2023
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), small areas of Gangetic West Bengal will likely experience heatwave conditions till Monday (April 17), north coastal Andhra Pradesh and Odisha until Saturday (April 15), and Bihar from April 15 to April 17.
A heat wave is announced when the highest temperature at a station is at least 40 degrees Celsius in the plains, 37 degrees in coastal areas, and 30 degrees in hilly areas, with a deviation from normal of at least 4.5 degrees.
Heatwaves can pose a serious health risk, particularly to vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and people with pre-existing health conditions. The IMD has advised people to stay hydrated, avoid going out in the sun during the hottest parts of the day, and wear loose-fitting clothing made of light-colored and breathable fabric.
In addition to health risks, heatwaves can also cause power outages and damage crops. The IMD has urged authorities to take appropriate measures to mitigate the impact of the heatwave on people and infrastructure.
Right now, the entire area of South Bihar is currently in the grip of a tremendous heatwave and the situation is likely to sustain for the next four days.
As temperatures continue to rise, it is important for people to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the heat. The IMD’s warnings and forecasts can serve as a helpful guide for individuals and communities to prepare for the potential risks associated with heatwaves.
