Since 1970s the temperature has increased, and now there is more likelihood of higher temperature and higher incidence of heatwaves
A study states that during early 1970s, there was only 5 % chance of temperature over 40 degree in states like Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Bihar.
However, this year the chance of temperatures rising above 40 degree has increased to nine states in additions to Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Bihar. Rajasthan, Gujarat, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh also now fall in the ambit, with Maharashtra leading with a probability of 14% to experience temperature above 40 degrees.
The weather has been changing throughout the world exposing countries to heatwaves, health hazards, economic losses, etc. A new study by Climate Central found out that India has increased chance of experiencing extreme heat during the festival of Holi. Climate Central is an independent group of scientists who research and communicate about climate change and how it impacts the life.
Mahesh Palawat, vice president- meteorology and climate change, Skymet Weather, says, “There is no denying the fact that climate change is behind the soaring mercury levels. In fact, we can say that there is a gradual shift in temperature patterns.”
He adds, “Heatwaves in March were rare but with the increasing global warming, the probability of heatwaves or high temperatures has also increased. We will witness similar weather conditions this year as well. This trend will continue in the coming days and we must prepare for an intense summer season ahead.”
A total of 51 large cities were taken into account across the country. The western and northern region in the month of March, has the fastest warming. The largest change was observed in Jammu and Kashmir with 2.8 degree centigrade in March since 1970.
Andrew Pershing, VP for Science, Climate Central says, “There has been an abrupt transition in the temperatures from cool winter-like temperatures to much warmer conditions now. After the strong warming trend observed in February, March is also likely to follow the same pattern. These warming trends in India are a clear sign of the impacts of human-led climate change.”