IMD Issues Comprehensive Heatwave Guidance as Temperatures Rise Across Regions
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500+ questions on Environment with explanations
📌 Summary:
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India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued heatwave advisories as temperatures in northwest, central and peninsular India range between 40°C to 44.5°C
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Highest temperature recorded: 44.5°C at Sri Ganganagar (Rajasthan); temperatures 5°C+ above normal in several regions
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Heatwave conditions likely in J&K, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, central India in coming days
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Hot and humid conditions expected over coastal and eastern regions; warm night conditions in parts of north India increase health risks
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IMD forecast: no significant change in max temperatures over NW India till April 27, then gradual fall; central India may witness gradual rise then decline
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Safety guidelines: avoid direct sunlight (especially 12–3 PM), stay hydrated, wear light-coloured clothes, use ORS, seek medical help for heat stroke
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Vulnerable groups: outdoor workers, elderly, children, persons with chronic illnesses at highest risk
🎯 UPSC Relevance: GS3 — Disaster Management; GS1 — Climatology. Heat Action Plans, urban heat islands, and climate change linkages are key exam themes.
📝 Prelims Facts:
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IMD is under Ministry of Earth Sciences
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Heatwave definition (India): when max temp ≥40°C in plains and ≥30°C in hilly regions AND is 4.5°C+ above normal
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ORS: Oral Rehydration Solution — key for preventing heat-related dehydration
🔑 Key Term: Heat Action Plan (HAP) — city/district-level emergency response plan to protect residents from extreme heat, including early warning systems, cool shelters, and public awareness.
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