Will india experience more heatwave days this summer

Context: The IMD forecasts above-normal temperatures across most of India from April to June.

Heat waves:

• A period of unusually high temperatures, with specific thresholds defined by the IMD.
• IMD declares a heat wave if maximum temperatures reach at least 40°C in the plains or 30°C in hilly regions, with departures of 4.5-6.4°C from normal.
• A heat wave is also declared if actual maximum temperatures exceed 45°C, with severe heat waves above 47°C.

Factors responsible for heatwaves:

• Climate change contributes to more frequent and lethal heat waves globally.
• El Niño weather conditions are also influencing heat wave occurrences.

Concerns:

• Significant risks to public health, agriculture, livelihoods, and disease spread.
• Higher temperatures can cause heat stress, illness, and mortality

The way ahead:

• The Election Commission of India has issued an advisory to manage the impact of heat waves during voting,

Source: The Hindu