This year, India is likely to undergo a hotter than usual summer as maximum and minimum temperatures are forecast to be above normal levels during April to June. According to the IMD (India Meteorological Department), heatwave days will be on the rise mainly in Central, East & North-West India. It raises serious concerns for health, agriculture and energy demand.
Generally India witnesses 4 to 7 days of heatwaves from April to June but this year may see an increase of 2 to 4 days extra by potentially raising the total to 10 days in certain areas. In fact in April, the number of heatwave days may double from the normal amount. The states anticipated to experience the highest temperatures include Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Odisha.
Even though these conditions are extreme, IMD officials ruled out the mechanism of El Niño predicting that it will remain neutral. The fact is, heat stress continues across the nation with the trend of climate change and warming.
Experts have also warned about heightened electricity demand resulting from the impending extreme heat. Last year, peak demand reached over 250 GW and consumption can increase further this summer. As temperatures rise, preparation and mitigation will be vital.
