A severe heatwave has engulfed several states across India, including Jharkhand, Karnataka, West Bengal, Odisha, and Maharashtra, with temperatures soaring above the seasonal norms. With mercury levels crossing 40°C in many regions, authorities have issued warnings and advisories to mitigate health risks and ensure public safety.
Extreme Heat Conditions in Jharkhand
Jharkhand is witnessing soaring temperatures, with several districts recording temperatures above 40°C. Chaibasa in West Singhbhum registered the highest temperature in the state at 41°C, which is significantly above the normal levels. Other regions, including Daltonganj (40.7°C), Bokaro Thermal (40.1°C), and Jamshedpur (40°C), also reported extreme heat.
The capital city, Ranchi, recorded 37°C, which is over six degrees higher than usual. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Yellow Alert for heatwave conditions in several districts, including Seraikela-Kharswan, East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, Dhanbad, and Bokaro, urging residents to take precautions. Relief is expected from March 19, with forecasts predicting rain and thunderstorms that could bring temperatures down.
Karnataka Faces Scorching Temperatures
North Interior Karnataka is grappling with intense heat, with Ainapur Hobli in Kalaburagi recording the highest temperature at 42.8°C. Other affected areas include Raichur, Bidar, Bagalkote, Yadgir, and Vijayapura, where temperatures have surpassed 40°C.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has advised residents to limit outdoor activities, particularly between 12 PM and 3 PM, to avoid heat-related illnesses. The IMD has warned of further temperature increases of 2-4°C in the coming days, with a heatwave alert in effect for parts of the state on March 18-19.
West Bengal Under Intense Heatwave
The western districts of West Bengal, including Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, Bankura, Paschim Bardhaman, and Birbhum, are experiencing a severe heatwave. In Kolkata, the minimum temperature has risen to 26.3°C, while the maximum reached 34.1°C, significantly above the seasonal average.
The IMD has predicted that the heatwave will persist until March 18, with dry weather conditions prevailing across the southern and western parts of the state. Relief is expected after March 20, with possible rain and thunderstorms offering some respite.
Odisha Struggles Amid Rising Temperatures
Odisha is also reeling under high temperatures, with Jharsuguda registering 41.8°C, making it one of the hottest locations in the region. Several districts, including Sambalpur and Mayurbhanj, have been placed under heatwave alerts, with places like Angul, Bolangir, and Titlagarh exceeding 40°C.
Heatwave Intensifies in Maharashtra
Maharashtra, particularly the Vidarbha region, is enduring relentless heat, with temperatures soaring above normal levels since early February. Chandrapur recorded 41.4°C, making it one of the hottest places in India. Other areas, including Bramhapuri, Solapur, and Wardha, have also reported temperatures above 41°C.
The combination of extreme heat and low humidity has worsened conditions, increasing discomfort among residents. With no immediate relief in sight, authorities have urged residents to take preventive measures against heat-related illnesses.
Public Safety Measures and Advisory
In response to the intensifying heatwave, officials have issued several advisories to ensure public safety. Residents are encouraged to:
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
- Stay hydrated by drinking ample fluids.
- Wear light and breathable clothing.
- Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
Vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, are advised to remain indoors during peak heat hours. As weather conditions continue to fluctuate, staying informed and adopting necessary precautions will be crucial in managing the impact of the heatwave.
