Scorching Week Ahead : Heatwave To Hit These Regions, Check Details Here!

Monday, April 21, 2025, 18:07

As April marches on, much of India is already feeling the heat - quite literally. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings about soaring temperatures and impending heatwave conditions set to grip large swathes of the country. After a brief spell of cooler weather brought on by scattered rainfall, the mercury is rising once again, and with it, concerns over public health, agriculture, and infrastructure.

Photo Credit: PTI

Which Regions Are Most at Risk?

The IMD has sounded a 'yellow' alert for parts of northwest and central India, predicting a 2-3°C increase in daytime temperatures over the coming five days. This includes regions such as south Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Vidarbha, which are expected to bear the brunt of the heat from 21-24 April.

Although temperatures in Central India and Gujarat may hold steady for the next 24 hours, a subsequent rise is likely. Meanwhile, East India is also on high alert, with forecasts suggesting a sharp 4-6°C increase in temperature over the next four days. By contrast, the Northeast is due for heavy rainfall starting Tuesday, offering a much-needed reprieve from the heat.

What Health Risks Do Heatwaves Pose?

Heatwaves are not just uncomfortable, they can be deadly. The World Health Organization has referred to them as "silent killers", a reminder of their often underestimated danger. Extreme heat can trigger a range of health issues, including dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. Vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing medical conditions are particularly at risk.

Moreover, heat can intensify air pollution, which poses additional threats to individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. These risks underscore the importance of public awareness and timely action during periods of extreme heat.

How Are Farmers And Crops Affected?

The agricultural sector is especially vulnerable during heatwaves. High temperatures can severely stress crops, affecting both their growth and yield. In severe cases, this can result in crop failure, directly impacting food supply chains and driving up prices. Livestock, too, are affected - heat stress can lower milk production and fertility rates, adding further pressure on farmers' livelihoods.

With many Indian farmers already grappling with unpredictable weather patterns, the onset of another heatwave only adds to their burdens.

Does Infrastructure Suffer In The Heat?

Yes and often in dramatic ways. Prolonged high temperatures can cause roads to melt and railway tracks to expand and warp, leading to travel delays and accidents. The surge in electricity demand due to increased use of fans and air conditioning often pushes power grids to the brink, sometimes resulting in blackouts at the worst possible time.

Urban infrastructure, in particular, is ill-equipped to cope with the compounding stress of rising temperatures and high population density.

What Can Be Done To Reduce The Impact?

While we cannot stop the sun from shining, we can take steps to reduce its impact. Urban planning that incorporates green spaces, shade structures, and heat-reflective materials can help lower temperatures in cities. Emergency preparedness is also key - ensuring there are cooling centres, medical support, and community outreach programmes in place to protect the most vulnerable.

Public awareness campaigns can play a vital role in educating people on how to stay safe, including staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activity during peak hours, and recognising early symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

On a broader scale, investing in renewable energy and improving the efficiency of cooling systems can help ease the strain on the power grid, creating more sustainable ways to stay cool.

Are Heatwaves A Sign Of Things To Come?

The record-breaking temperatures seen earlier this April such as the 46°C readings in west Rajasthan and Chandrapur's 44.6°C highlight a worrying trend. With climate change fuelling more frequent and intense heat events, it's clear that such conditions are becoming less of an anomaly and more of a seasonal expectation.

The varying weather across India - heatwaves in the west, rain in the northeast further illustrates the complex and dynamic climate the country faces, often within the same week.

How Can We Stay Safe And Prepared?

As the temperatures continue to climb, staying informed and adopting simple but effective safety measures can make all the difference. The IMD's advisories should be followed closely, especially by those in high-risk regions. It's also important to check in on neighbours, particularly the elderly, and to take care of pets and livestock.

Being prepared is no longer optional - it's essential.

Rising Temperatures, Rising Responsibility

Heatwaves are no longer rare, and their impacts are wide-reaching - affecting not just our comfort, but our health, food security, infrastructure, and environment. As we face these recurring challenges, both individual actions and systemic changes are necessary. Whether it's planting more trees, staying indoors during peak heat, or pushing for climate-resilient policies, every effort counts.