About Extreme Heatwaves in South Asia

In early spring 2022, South Asia faced unprecedented heatwaves. Countries like India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan recorded extreme temperatures in March and April. A study published in April 2025 by researchers from IIT Bombay and Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz explored the causes of these heat events. The findings reveal the complex atmospheric dynamics and soil moisture conditions that contributed to the intensity of the heatwaves.

Atmospheric Rossby Waves

The March heatwave was primarily influenced by atmospheric Rossby waves. These are large-scale waves in the atmosphere that can affect weather patterns. The study revealed that an increase in the amplitude of these waves led to the heatwave. Energy transfer from the extratropical jet stream to the subtropical jet stream intensified these waves. This interaction created a conducive environment for extreme heat.

Soil Moisture Depletion

In contrast, the April heatwave was driven by soil conditions. Very dry soil contributed to the heat. The previous March heatwave had already depleted soil moisture. This created a feedback loop that exacerbated the heat conditions. When soil is dry, solar energy heats the air directly rather than evaporating moisture. This leads to higher temperatures.

Heatwave Interaction

The study marks a concerning pattern – one heatwave can set the stage for another. The drying of the soil from the first heatwave makes the subsequent event more intense. This cycle of heat and dryness poses challenges for climate forecasting. About this interaction is crucial for predicting future heatwaves.

Implications for Climate Science

The research puts stress on the importance of studying atmospheric processes and soil conditions. As climate change alters wind patterns, these insights can improve our ability to forecast heat events. Better predictions can help mitigate the impacts of extreme heat on societies.

Future Research Directions

Further research is needed to explore the long-term impacts of heatwaves on agriculture and public health. About regional variations within South Asia will also be essential. This knowledge can aid in developing comprehensive strategies for climate adaptation.

Collaboration in Climate Studies

The collaboration between IIT Bombay and Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz exemplifies the global effort in climate research. Such partnerships can enhance the understanding of climate phenomena across different geographical contexts.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the role of atmospheric Rossby waves in influencing weather patterns.
2. Estimate the impact of soil moisture depletion on climate resilience in South Asia.
3. What are the implications of climate change on extreme weather patterns? Discuss with suitable examples.
4. Point out the significance of international collaboration in addressing climate change challenges.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the role of atmospheric Rossby waves in influencing weather patterns.

1. Atmospheric Rossby waves are large-scale meanders in high-altitude winds that affect weather systems.
2. In March 2022, an increase in their amplitude contributed to extreme heat by transferring energy from the extratropical to subtropical jet stream.
3. The interaction of these waves creates conducive conditions for heatwaves, altering typical weather patterns.
4. About Rossby waves helps in forecasting extreme weather events and their potential impacts on regions.
5. Research indicates that changes in Rossby wave patterns can be linked to climate change, affecting weather predictability.

2. Estimate the impact of soil moisture depletion on climate resilience in South Asia.

1. Soil moisture depletion reduces the land’s ability to moderate temperatures, leading to more intense heatwaves.
2. The March heatwave in 2022 dried out the soil, creating conditions for the subsequent April heatwave to be more severe.
3. Dry soil leads to direct solar heating of air, exacerbating heat conditions and reducing agricultural productivity.
4. This cycle of heat and dryness undermines climate resilience, making adaptation strategies critical for the region.
5. Addressing soil moisture management is essential for enhancing climate resilience in South Asian countries.

3. What are the implications of climate change on extreme weather patterns? Discuss with suitable examples.

1. Climate change alters atmospheric dynamics, leading to increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
2. Examples include more severe heatwaves, like those in South Asia in 2022, and increased rainfall variability causing floods.
3. Changes in wind patterns due to climate change can disrupt established weather systems, leading to unpredictable outcomes.
4. Research links climate change to the intensity of heatwaves, emphasizing the need for adaptive measures in vulnerable regions.
5. About these implications is crucial for developing effective climate policies and disaster preparedness strategies.

4. Point out the significance of international collaboration in addressing climate change challenges.

1. International collaboration encourages knowledge sharing and resource pooling to tackle global climate challenges effectively.
2. Partnerships, like that between IIT Bombay and Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, enhance research capabilities and insights.
3. Collaborative efforts can lead to more comprehensive climate models and better forecasting methods.
4. Such cooperation is essential for addressing transboundary climate issues, as climate change impacts do not respect national borders.
5. Global partnerships can also facilitate the development of unified strategies for climate adaptation and mitigation.