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A severe heatwave is sweeping through multiple states in India, including Jharkhand, Karnataka, West Bengal, Odisha, and Maharashtra, with temperatures climbing significantly beyond normal averages. Numerous locations have reported temperatures surpassing 40 degrees Celsius, leading authorities to issue heatwave warnings and guidelines for public safety. The onset of this extreme heat earlier than usual can be attributed to a range of factors, such as climate change, alterations in weather patterns, the effects of El Nino, rapid urban growth, and extensive deforestation. Typically, India’s pre-monsoon period, which occurs from March to May, is characterized by sporadic thunderstorms and rain that help to alleviate increasing temperatures. However, a lack of sufficient pre-monsoon rainfall or significant delays in its arrival allow heat to accumulate, fostering the conditions necessary for early and extended heatwaves. This interplay of environmental and atmospheric conditions has led to the escalating heat experienced in various regions.
In Jharkhand, the scorching weather has affected seven districts, with Chaibasa in West Singhbhum registering the highest temperature at 41°C, which is 7.6 degrees above the seasonal average. Other impacted locations comprise Daltonganj (40.7°C), Bokaro Thermal (40.1°C), and Jamshedpur (40°C). The state capital, Ranchi, noted a temperature of 37°C, exceeding the average by 6.1 degrees. As reported by the Times of India, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a Yellow Alert for areas such as Seraikela-Kharsawan, East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, Dhanbad, and Bokaro on March 16. However, some relief is expected after March 19, with rain and thunderstorms likely on the horizon. Meanwhile, in North Karnataka, Ainapur Hobli village in Kalaburagi recorded the state’s highest temperature at 42.8°C. Other districts like Raichur, Bidar, Bagalkot, Yadgir, and Vijayapura also noted temperatures exceeding the 40-degree mark.
In West Bengal, districts including Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, Bankura, Paschim Bardhaman, and Birbhum are experiencing severe heatwave conditions. Kolkata logged a minimum temperature of 26.3°C, which is 3.7 degrees higher than normal, with a maximum temperature reaching 34.1°C, five degrees more than the average. The heatwave is predicted to persist until March 18, with potential relief from rain or thunderstorms anticipated after March 20.
Odisha is also enduring extreme temperatures, with Jharsuguda recording 41.8°C on Friday. The IMD has issued heatwave alerts for districts like Sambalpur and Mayurbhanj. Other regions, including Angul, Bolangir, and Titlagarh, have experienced temperatures that have also risen above 40°C.
In Maharashtra's Vidarbha region, the extreme heat continues, with Chandrapur recording a high of 41.4°C on Saturday. Additionally, places such as Bramhapuri, Solapur, and Wardha have encountered temperatures that exceed 41°C.
How to Safeguard Yourself from Heat?
Stay Properly Hydrated: Make sure to consume sufficient water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel a need to drink. Refrain from alcohol and caffeinated beverages since they can cause dehydration.
Opt for Light Attire: Select loose, airy materials like cotton in lighter colors to help reflect heat.
Steer Clear of Direct Sun: Remain indoors during the hottest times of the day (12 PM – 4 PM). Should you need to step outside, don a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen.
Employ Cooling Techniques: Take refreshing showers, place damp cloths on your neck and wrists, and seek refuge in air-conditioned or well-ventilated areas.
Adjust Your Eating Habits: Focus on lighter meals that include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Stay away from heavy, spicy, or greasy foods that could increase your body temperature.
Reduce Physical Exertion: Cut down on intense outdoor activities and schedule exercise for the cooler times of the day, like early morning or after sunset.
