The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana will likely experience a severe heatwave from May 18 to 20. Additionally, other parts of northern India and Bihar are expected to face similar conditions over the next five days as temperatures rise. Northwest India and Gujarat are also expected to see a two to three-degree increase in temperatures over the next five days, with the agency attributing this heat to the diminishing influence of western disturbances.
According to M Mohapatra, director general of IMD, there is no immediate possibility of rain, and the hot air subsidence, along with an anticyclone over northwest India, is causing surface heating. The advection of hot air towards Uttar Pradesh and Bihar is expected soon, maintaining very hot conditions for the next seven days. Advection refers to the lateral movement of hot air due to winds. Private weather forecasters agree with IMD’s forecast, noting that an anticyclone over West Rajasthan and Pakistan is bringing hot air from Balochistan and the Thar desert, leading to heatwaves in parts of Rajasthan and Delhi. Mahesh Palawat, vice-president of climate and meteorology at Skymet Weather, mentioned that the area affected by heatwaves is likely to expand.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issues a heatwave declaration when certain temperature thresholds are exceeded in different regions. For the plains, a heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature goes above 40°C. Along the coastal areas, the threshold is set at 37°C, while in hilly regions, it is 30°C. Additionally, the deviation from the normal average maximum temperature should be between 4.5°C and 6.4°C above the average. If these conditions persist for two consecutive days, a heatwave is declared on the second day. However, if the deviation exceeds 6.4°C above normal, it is classified as a severe heatwave.
In light of the current weather conditions, IMD has issued an “orange alert” for Punjab, Haryana, and west Rajasthan on May 18, 19, and 20. This alert signifies that local authorities should be prepared to handle any heatwave-related emergencies that may arise.
The warning also highlights the increased risk of heat-related illnesses for individuals who are exposed to prolonged sun exposure or engaged in heavy physical work. Vulnerable populations are particularly at risk and should take extra precautions to safeguard their health.
On the other hand, southern India is experiencing contrasting weather patterns due to a cyclonic circulation over Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu and the surrounding areas. This circulation has resulted in widespread rainfall across peninsular India, including Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, Mahe, Lakshadweep, and south Karnataka. Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds are expected along with this rainfall.
Similarly, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Telangana, and Rayalaseema can anticipate light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds (30-40 kmph) during the same period.
Furthermore, IMD has issued a warning about potential flooding in Tamil Nadu. It is essential for residents and authorities to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to mitigate the risks associated with flooding.