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Writer's pictureAishwarrya B
Jun 1, 20243 min read

What are the Reasons For Extreme Heatwaves in India?

India is experiencing scorching temperatures and wildfires
India is experiencing scorching temperatures and wildfires

The other day, I read that the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has declared a red alert in Delhi NCR, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. April of this year witnessed a temperature increase of 0.18°C compared to previous years! This is all alarming. But why are we all facing such extreme heatwaves in India and the rest of the world? Find the reasons in this blog.



What is a heatwave?


Let me tell you, in simple words, a heatwave is a phenomenon where there is sweltering weather lasting for more than two days. In heatwaves, the temperatures exceed 40°C. Sometimes, these temperatures can be even higher. This severity is often dependent upon factors such as region and the severity of the heatwave. This natural hazard is frequently neglected, but prolonged contact with abnormal temperatures can cause health risks and environmental dangers.


Heatwave is a phenomenon where temperature exceeds 40°C
Heatwave is a phenomenon where temperature exceeds 40°C

What is the reason for extreme heatwaves in India?


Several factors are responsible for extreme heat waves in India. Let's look at the reasons below.


Global Warming: Global warming, fueled by climate change, significantly amplifies the severity of heat waves, heightening the likelihood of extreme temperatures both during the day and at night. Human activities such as operating coal power plants and engaging in industrial processes emit substantial amounts of greenhouse gases, which trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to a rise in temperatures.


Unplanned urbanization is contributing to heatwaves
Unplanned urbanisation is contributing to heatwaves

Rapid urbanisation: A recent study by IIT Bhubaneswar found that urbanisation has led to a 60% increase in warming in Indian cities. Using NASA satellite data, they discovered that Tier-2 cities in Eastern India are most affected. Concrete and asphalt trap heat during the day, preventing cooling at night. Megacities like Delhi and Mumbai have become urban heat islands, experiencing higher temperatures than rural areas. This highlights how unplanned urbanisation exacerbates heat waves.


Less Green Cover: Trees are vital for maintaining the Earth's water cycle. Deforestation and reduced greenery decrease precipitation, contributing to higher temperatures. According to WRI, tropical forests offer localized cooling in hot regions. Through evapotranspiration, trees convert groundwater into atmospheric moisture, acting as natural air conditioners. India's population growth and reduced vegetation have raised surface temperatures.

Trees act as natural air conditioner systems
Trees act as natural air conditioner systems

Air pollution: Air pollution in India, released from vehicular emissions, construction activities, agricultural practices, and industrial operations, releases substantial amounts of particulate matter and harmful pollutants, leading to elevated temperatures. Greenhouse gases trap heat, while black carbon absorbs sunlight, further warming the atmosphere. Heatwaves and air pollution are closely intertwined, as high-pressure systems during heatwaves create stagnant conditions with fewer winds and rainfall, exacerbating the buildup of pollutants on the ground. This perpetuates a vicious cycle of environmental degradation.


Meteorological Conditions: Meteorological factors significantly influence heatwaves in India. High-pressure systems over northwestern India, the Arabian Sea, and the Bay of Bengal often trigger heatwaves. Furthermore, delays in monsoon onset and other weather patterns, influenced by phenomena like El Niño, can lead to prolonged hot and dry conditions, exacerbating heatwave occurrences nationwide.


India has diverse terrains, including semi-arid regions, mountainous areas, and deserts
India has diverse terrains, including semi-arid regions, mountainous areas, and deserts

Geographical Factors: Due to its proximity to the equator, India experiences intense solar radiation year-round, particularly during the summer months. The country's diverse terrain, including semi-arid zones, deserts, and high-altitude areas, further increases heatwave conditions.


Wrapping up


India is struggling with extreme temperatures, leading to heat stress among its citizens and ecosystems. Recently, the nation's capital recorded a scorching 52.3°C, just 4.4°C less than the highest temperature ever recorded on Earth in 1913! To combat such alarming temperatures, stringent measures must be taken. This includes mitigating greenhouse gas emissions through strict regulations, halting the construction of illegal infrastructure and deforestation, adopting sustainable urban planning methods, preserving green spaces and forests, and rigorously controlling air pollution. These actions are imperative to safeguard both human health and the environment from the dangerous impacts of extreme heat.







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