Heat Wave
26-08-2023
12:31 PM
1 min read
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Overview:
India Meteorological Department has issued a heat wave warning for Delhi and adjoining areas for May 22, 2023 after maximum temperatures in several parts of the capital were recorded above 45 degrees Celsius.
What is a heat wave?
- A Heat Wave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, more than the normal maximum temperature that occurs during the summer season in the North-Western parts of India.
- Duration: Heat Waves typically occur between March and June, and in some rare cases even extend till July.
- Criteria: According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), when actual maximum temperature remains 45*C or more irrespective of normal maximum temperature, heat waves should be declared.
- Reasons for heat waves:
- Extreme weather conditions like Heat Waves in summer, Cold Waves in winter and extreme rainfall when it is least expected have almost become the norm due to climate change.
- In India, some climatic reasons probably make heat waves on the east coast deadlier.
- In May and June, the Bay of Bengal often witnesses Anti-Cyclonic Circulations which work towards trapping the heat in the lower atmosphere.
- Health Impacts: The health impacts of Heat Waves typically involve dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke. Heat Wave conditions can result in physiological strain, which could even result in death.
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Q1) What is the work of Indian Meteorological Department
To take meteorological observations and to provide current and forecast meteorological information for optimum operation of weather-sensitive activities like agriculture, irrigation, shipping, aviation, offshore oil explorations, etc.