Understanding the True Impact of Heatwaves in India: WMO Chief Reveals Underreported Crisis

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Secretary-General, Celeste Saulo, has shed light on the underreported human health and economic impacts of heatwaves in India. While water-related disasters often dominate discussions about natural hazard losses in Asia, Saulo emphasizes the need for better data collection on heatwave casualties and economic disruptions, as reported by The Indian Express.

WMO Chief Highlights Underreported Impact of India's Heatwave

India's heatwave crisis is causing significant human health and economic losses, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Despite record-breaking temperatures and widespread impact, the true cost of these heatwaves remains underreported.

Unprecedented Heatwave Grips India

This year, India has witnessed extraordinary heatwave conditions starting as early as March. These extreme temperatures have stretched beyond the typical heatwave zones, affecting regions like Jammu and Kashmir (for 12 days), Himachal Pradesh (for 12 days), and even Kerala (for 5 days).

Multi-Hazard Threat: Heatwave Impacts Go Beyond Health

WMO Secretary-General, Celeste Saulo pointed out the "multi-hazard" nature of India's current heatwave, highlighting its widespread effects not just on human health but also on education, water resources, agriculture, energy, and labor productivity.

Heatwave Records Shattered, North India Continues to Struggle

Data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reveals that Odisha recorded the highest number of heatwave days between March and June 9th, followed by Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. Several areas in northwest and northern India not only broke previous temperature records but also saw new localities experiencing scorching temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius on multiple occasions.

The heatwave battle continues in North India, with the IMD issuing heatwave and severe heatwave alerts for Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Delhi, Punjab, and Jharkhand. Additionally, Jammu, Himachal Pradesh, West Bengal, and Bihar could face heatwave conditions today, June 15th.

Monsoon Relief Expected in Parts

While the heatwave continues to grip some regions, a wet spell is anticipated in the northeastern states, bringing thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. The IMD predicts light to moderate showers in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, West Bengal, and Sikkim until June 21st.

Heavy Rainfall Forecast for Northeast India

The IMD has forecasted heavy showers in West Bengal, Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura until June 19th, offering some respite from the heatwave in these areas.

Latest Facts:

• As of June 15th, 2024, India's heatwave has been ongoing since March, impacting regions beyond typical heatwave zones.

• The IMD reports Odisha with the highest number of heatwave days, followed by Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu.

• Several locations in northwest and northern India have broken previous temperature records, with some exceeding 50 degrees Celsius.

• The WMO emphasizes the need for better data collection to capture the full impact of heatwaves on human health and the economy.

The Need for Increased Awareness and Reporting

Saulo's statements highlight the critical need for better reporting and documentation of heatwave impacts in India. Accurate data is essential for formulating effective policies and responses to mitigate the effects of extreme heat. As climate change continues to exacerbate weather patterns, it is crucial to recognize and address the growing threat posed by heatwaves.