Extreme Heat Wave Pushes India To Borderline Of Survivability

Key Takeaway 

• Extreme heat wave predicted in regions in Karnataka, Odisha, West Bengal, Telangana and Coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh
• Heatwave most likely to soar from April 3- April 9
• Rainfall and thunderstorms predicted in Northeast India from April 7
• More ACs and coolers release more Carbon Dioxide which further increases the temperatures 

In a recent announcement by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), certain regions in Karnataka, Odisha, West Bengal, Telangana, and coastal Andhra Pradesh are on the brink of confronting intense heat wave. It’s usually summerish- hot in India from April to June but, this year, it’s going to be much hotter! Just ‘survivable’! 

Heatwave : Affected Areas 

IMD suggests that extreme heat wave will persist from April 3rd- April 9. Furthermore, augmented rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in Northeast India from April 7. 

According to IMD’s breakdown, North Interior Karnataka, Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal Jharkhand, Telangana, Rayalaseema, and Coastal Andhra Pradesh will experience heat waves from the 3rd- 9th of April. 

The climate will be humid and sultry. People in Kerala, Mahe, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Coastal Karnataka, Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, and Rayalaseema, be careful! 

Heatwave: The Climate Patterns Are Worsening 

It’s just April and the maximum temperature is 40–43 degrees in these states. It’s not normal! These temperatures exceeded the limits by 1-4 ℃ and will gradually escalate by 2-3 ℃. It is bold and clear with this, the climate is worsening! 

As per climatic experts, by 2050, India will cross the borderline of heat survivability. 

With this, the demand for air conditioners (AC) will rise ninefold. Now, this is a dilemma, as to beat the repercussions of the heat wave, we’ll have to deal with issues of equity and environmental preservation. 

India contributes approx  7% of global CO2 emissions. The question is, how do we plan to reduce emissions despite escalating levels of greenhouse gases? 

India Itself Responsible For Heatwave?

At the recent COP28 climate conference, India was not invited to participate as a nation committed to reducing emissions from cooling systems. Well, this is very concerning! 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that all the developing nations should receive an equitable share in the global carbon budget. He also highlighted that it is becoming very complex to balance economic development with environmental concerns.

You will find the best modern technology advanced Air Conditioners in India, from the likes of LG, IFB, Samsung, BlueStar etc. But, more ACs, more heat!! 

Most of the countries plan to slash their emissions from cooling systems by 68% by 2050, India has also taken steps to phase out harmful coolants like hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the United Nations’ 2016 Kigali Amendment. 

Handle-the-heatwave: What’s your plan to beat the heat? 

While India navigates this complex terrain of heat wave, how do you plan to beat? The team of experts at the Indian Bugle brings you the best ways to stay cool and beat the heat. Take a look: 

• Avoid going out during the hottest hours; 
• If you must, use sunscreen ( non-negotiable), wear a hat and sunglasses;
• Wear only loose, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen etc;
• Drink plenty of fluids like water ( a necessity), coconut water, lemonade etc;
• Include a lot of indoor plants in your house to balance the humidity levels;
• Prefer light, home-cooked meals;
• Lastly, ( try) limiting your alcohol intake. Alcohol consumption makes the body dehydrated and you’ll only feel hotter. 

Stay cool! Stay healthy!