Hotter Months Ahead: IMD Warns of Rising Temperatures in Maharashtra
Pune, 2nd April 2024: Following a sweltering March, Maharashtra is gearing up for even hotter months ahead, according to the latest monthly forecast released by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday.
The forecast predicts above-normal day and night temperatures across Maharashtra, as well as parts of Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, East Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh from April to June.
Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of IMD, attributed the anticipated heatwave conditions to the El Niño phenomenon, known for elevating temperatures in these regions. “We anticipate above-normal heatwave conditions in Madhya Maharashtra, Vidarbha, and Marathwada. The duration of heatwaves in these areas could be 2-8 days longer than usual during the April to June period this year. Additionally, heatwave conditions are likely in April in parts of central and peninsular India, including Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada, which fall under the heatwave zone,” Mohapatra stated.
KS Hosalikar, the head of IMD Pune, expressed concerns about the potential impacts of the hotter-than-usual summer on various sectors and daily life. “The health of vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, individuals with chronic conditions, and young children, is at risk due to higher day and night temperatures. Warmer nights may affect sleep quality and work performance,” he cautioned.
Hosalikar highlighted potential challenges in the power and agriculture sectors. “Increased electricity demand for air conditioning could strain the power sector, impacting load distribution. Agriculture may also suffer, as higher daytime temperatures could lead to increased evapotranspiration rates, necessitating more irrigation to maintain crop yields. Water scarcity issues may worsen due to these weather conditions,” he explained.
He emphasized the importance of planning and management by relevant departments to address these challenges, particularly for individuals working outdoors or living in poorly ventilated accommodations.
Coastal areas with high humidity levels may experience added discomfort due to the combination of higher humidity and temperatures, Hosalikar noted. “Heatwave days are expected to be above-normal in Madhya Maharashtra and adjoining Marathwada till June. However, east Vidarbha might see some relief with possible rainfall in April, reducing the likelihood of heatwaves compared to west Vidarbha, where little rain is expected,” he concluded.
