Heatwaves

Heatwaves

Casualties were observed from an apparent heat stroke while attending a government award function in Navi Mumbai. This incident highlights the potential risks from heatwaves.

What is Heatwave ?

• The Heatwave is considered when the maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40°C for Plains and at least 30°C for Hilly regions.
• A heatwave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, a common phenomenon in India during the months of May-June.

Causes of Heatwaves :-

• Global Warming
• Urbanisation
• El Nino Effect

Urban Heat island effect 

highly urbanized area, with large amounts of concrete, buildings, and asphalt. These surfaces absorb and retain heat, creating an urban heat island effect. This can make the temperature feel hotter than it actually is

Wet-Bulb Temperature  

• WBT is a limit that considers heat and humidity beyond which humans can not tolerate high temperatures.

Practice Questions for Prelims

With reference to heatwaves, which of the following statements is not correct?
a) It is a period of abnormally high temperatures.
b) It typically occur between March and June.
c) Maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 30 degrees for plain and at least 20 degrees for hilly regions.
d) The health impacts of heatwaves involve dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Ans. c)

Mains Practice Question

The frequency and intensity of heatwaves, which are among the most hazardous natural disasters, may increase in the 21st century due to climate change. Dicuss.

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