IMD Predicts Severe Heatwaves Across India: Rising Temperatures Demand Urgent Action
(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained, Page – 14)
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Topic: GS3 – Disaster Management |
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Context |
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Analysis of the news:
The Looming Threat of Heatwaves
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The summer of 2025 is expected to be extremely warm, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting an above-normal number of heatwave days across most parts of India.
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This is in line with the worsening trend of extreme heat, which has serious consequences for public health, livelihoods, and economic stability. While heatwaves are a consequence of climate change, their impact can be mitigated through timely and effective interventions.
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However, despite the existence of heat action plans in many states, their implementation remains inadequate, leaving vulnerable populations at risk.
The Heatwave Forecast: A Worsening Trend
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According to the IMD, northern, central, and eastern India will experience an exceptional increase in heatwave days between April and June.
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Some regions, such as Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and the Northeast, might escape extreme temperatures, but most of the country is expected to suffer prolonged heat stress.
The frequency of heatwaves has been rising sharply. For instance:
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Rajasthan, which normally sees 8-12 heatwave days, recorded 23 heatwave days in eastern Rajasthan and 29 in western Rajasthan in 2024.
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Uttar Pradesh, which usually experiences 10-12 heatwave days, suffered through 32 heatwave days in 2024.
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Even Kerala, which rarely experiences heatwaves, recorded six heatwave days in 2024.
In total, India saw 554 heatwave days in 2024, the highest in the last 15 years, except for 2010, which had 578 heatwave days. While 2024 was the warmest year on record, heatwaves are not directly correlated to annual temperature trends, as they are concentrated, short-term events rather than a measure of year-long climate patterns.
Heatwaves Over Time: An Increasing Threat
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Several studies have confirmed the rising intensity and frequency of heatwaves.
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A recent study, Heat Waves in India: Patterns, Associations, and Sub-Seasonal Prediction Skills, published in the journal Climate Dynamics, analyzed heatwave trends over the past seven decades.
Key findings include:
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Since 2000, the number of heatwave days has been increasing at a rate of three days per decade in central, northwest, and southeast India.
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Southeastern coastal areas (Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh) have seen the most pronounced increase in heatwaves.
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Long-duration heatwaves (lasting seven days or more) are becoming more common, particularly in the northwest, central, and southeastern regions.
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Heatwaves are no longer restricted to summer months, with heatwave-like conditions occurring as early as February in some areas.
These findings underscore the need for stronger adaptation measures to protect vulnerable populations and mitigate the economic impact of heatwaves.
Heat Action Plans: A Partial Solution
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The IMD provides accurate heatwave forecasts up to a week in advance, giving states and districts time to prepare.
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Unlike localized extreme rainfall, heatwaves affect large areas, making them easier to predict.
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However, forecasting alone is not enough—effective response measures are necessary to reduce human suffering and economic loss.
Heat Action Plans (HAPs) have been developed in at least 23 states and multiple districts. These plans list preventive measures such as:
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Setting up public shade structures
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Ensuring access to drinking water
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Distributing oral rehydration solutions
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Rescheduling school, office, and work hours to avoid peak heat
While these short-term interventions have proven effective, the implementation of long-term measures has been lacking.
Challenges in Implementation
Recent assessments, such as a study by the Sustainable Futures Collaborative, reveal that governments focus mainly on reactive, short-term measures rather than proactive, long-term solutions. Key issues include:
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Lack of urban greening initiatives, such as tree plantation and green corridors.
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Failure to rejuvenate water bodies, which can help cool urban areas.
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Neglect of infrastructure modifications, like heat-reflective roofing or climate-responsive urban planning.
Currently, most heat action plans are triggered only when a heatwave alert is issued, rather than being integrated into long-term climate adaptation strategies. This reactive approach fails to address the root causes of urban heat stress and leaves populations vulnerable to recurring heatwaves.
Conclusion:
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The increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves in India highlight the urgent need for comprehensive climate adaptation measures.
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While forecasting and short-term interventions can help reduce immediate impacts, governments must integrate heat action plans into long-term urban planning and climate policies.
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Strategies such as increasing green cover, improving water conservation, and developing heat-resistant infrastructure are essential to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures.
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Without proactive measures, the burden of heatwaves will continue to grow, endangering public health, economic productivity, and overall well-being.
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Practice Question: Heatwaves in India are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. Discuss the impact of heatwaves on public health, economy, and the environment. Evaluate the effectiveness of Heat Action Plans (HAPs) in mitigating their effects. (250 Words /15 marks) |
