In the face of growing heat-related challenges, India has seen a decline in heat-related fatalities, owing to the proactive measures taken by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). This transformation signifies India’s continuous efforts to tackle the adverse implications of heatwaves. This article takes an in-depth look at heatwaves and IMD’s initiatives to combat this concern, the concept of the Heat Index, and the associated parameters.
Understanding Heat Waves
Heat waves refer to extended periods featuring abnormally hot weather, which potentially wreaks havoc on human health, the environment, and the economy. Given its tropical climate, India is particularly susceptible to heatwaves, which have witnessed an upsurge in both frequency and intensity recently.
The IMD declares a heatwave based on certain criteria. These include a maximum temperature reaching at least 40°C or above for plains and 30°C or more for hilly regions. The categorization is further segmented based on the deviation from standard temperatures as well as the actual maximum temperature.
The Role of IMD in Countering Heat Waves
To curb the severity of heatwaves, the IMD has introduced several key initiatives and tools. These include providing timely heatwave forecasts, warning disaster management authorities for adequate preparation, offering seasonal overviews, and extended range forecasts. Moreover, IMD provides daily forecasts for the upcoming five days with real-time updates and color-coded warnings for serious weather incidents. Collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and local health departments for heat action plans proves crucial in minimizing heat-related risks in vulnerable areas.
The Concept of Heat Index
The Heat Index is a newly introduced parameter by the IMD that accounts for both temperature and humidity to compute the ‘real-feel’ or apparent temperature experienced by people. The Heat Index assists us in understanding how humidity affects high heat levels and contributes to discomfort during warm weather. The Index employs different color codes to categorize apparent temperatures into various levels, as green for less than 35°C, yellow for 36-45°C, orange for 46-55°C, and red for more than 55°C. This coding allows a better comprehension of heat stress and related health risks.
Heat Index as a Tool for Public Health
Understanding the Heat Index serves as a useful tool in safeguarding public health during heatwaves. It aids in strategic decision-making and formulating action plans to ensure the health and wellbeing of citizens in high heat conditions.
India’s Mitigation of Global Warming: UPSC Exam Question
Part of the UPSC Civil Services Examination involved a question on the potential limitations of India in mitigating global warming currently and in the immediate future. The discussion revolved around the availability of alternate technologies, investment in research and development, and setting up polluting industries by developed countries in India. The right answer was the first and second options.
The Formation of Heat Islands: UPSC Exam Question
Another question from the same exam asked about the causes of the formation of heat islands in the urban habitats of the world. The discussion sought to bring to the fore the significant reasons for urban heat islands, a prevalent phenomenon in modern-day cities.
