Heatwave Alert Issued For Gujarat, Rajasthan, Vidharbha, Odisha On These Dates; Check Details
A heatwave is a period of abnormally high temperatures that lasts for several days and can have serious health and environmental impacts.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning for multiple regions, including Gujarat, Southwest Rajasthan, Vidarbha, and Odisha.
According to the latest weather advisory:
Gujarat will experience a heatwave from Mar 10 to 12, particularly in the Saurashtra and Kutch regions.
Southwest Rajasthan is likely to see extreme heat conditions on Mar 11 and 12.
Vidarbha (eastern Maharashtra) is also under a heatwave alert from Mar 11 to 13.
Odisha is expected to be affected by rising temperatures on Mar 13 and 14.
What is a Heatwave?
A heatwave is a period of abnormally high temperatures that lasts for several days and can have serious health and environmental impacts. In India, the IMD defines a heatwave based on temperature criteria:
Plains: The maximum temperature reaches ≥40°C and is 4.5°C to 6.4°C above normal.
Hilly regions: The maximum temperature reaches ≥30°C and is 4.5°C to 6.4°C above normal.
Severe Heatwave: If the temperature is 6.5°C or more above normal.
If the temperature crosses 45°C, it is automatically considered a heatwave.
Mercury Rises In The Following States
Rajkot (Saurashtra & Kutch) recorded the highest maximum temperature of 41.1°C.
Many parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Telangana have reported temperatures above 39°C, which is markedly above normal.
IMD data indicates that the maximum temperatures in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Vidarbha are 5-6°C above average, making heatwave conditions imminent.
The IMD has issued a Yellow Alert for heat wave conditions in such areas, indicating moderate temperatures that may be tolerable for the general public but pose a moderate health risk to vulnerable groups such as infants, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses.
Impact and Advisory
The IMD advises:
Avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours (12 PM – 4 PM)
Stay hydrated by consuming water and fluids regularly
Wear light coloured, loose-fitting clothing and use head coverings when outdoors
Farmers should avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and take precautions to prevent heat stress in livestock
Industries and businesses should take necessary workplace safety measures to prevent heat-related illnesses among workers
While the heatwave will persist in these regions for the next few days, a gradual dip of 2-3°C is expected in Gujarat after Mar 12. Other regions like Odisha and Vidarbha will continue experiencing high temperatures until at least Mar 14.
