Heat Wave

What is a heat wave?

• A Heat Wave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, more than the normal maximum temperature that occurs during the summer season in the North-Western parts of India.
• Duration: Heat Waves typically occur between March and June, and in some rare cases even extend till July.
• Criteria: According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), when actual maximum temperature remains 45*C or more irrespective of normal maximum temperature, heat waves should be declared.
• Reasons for heat waves:
  • Extreme weather conditions like Heat Waves in summer, Cold Waves in winter and extreme rainfall when it is least expected have almost become the norm due to climate change.
  • In India, some climatic reasons probably make heat waves on the east coast deadlier.
  • In May and June, the Bay of Bengal often witnesses Anti-Cyclonic Circulations which work towards trapping the heat in the lower atmosphere.
• Health Impacts: The health impacts of Heat Waves typically involve dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke. Heat Wave conditions can result in physiological strain, which could even result in death.