AIR- Prevention & Preparedness for Heatwaves | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Heatwaves

Heatwaves Definition:

• Qualitatively, a heatwave refers to a condition where air temperature poses a severe threat to the human body upon exposure.
• Quantitatively, it is characterized by temperature thresholds in a specific region, either in terms of actual temperature or deviation from the normal range.
• In some regions, heatwaves are determined based on the heat index considering both temperature and humidity or extreme temperature percentiles.

Timing and Duration:

• Heatwaves typically occur between March and June, sometimes extending into July in rare cases.

Criteria by IMD:

• The Indian Meteorological Department sets criteria for heatwaves, with a minimum temperature threshold of 40°C for plains and 30°C for hilly regions to be considered.
• For regions with a normal maximum temperature of 40°C or lower, a departure from normal of 5-6°C indicates a heatwave, while a departure of 7°C or more indicates a severe heatwave.

Favorable Conditions:

• Presence of hot, dry air over a region and suitable flow patterns for transporting hot air.
• Absence of moisture in the upper atmosphere, as moisture inhibits temperature rise.
• Clear skies to allow maximum insulation.
• Prominence of anti-cyclonic flow over the area.

Health Impacts:

• Health consequences include dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
• Vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying health conditions are at higher risk.
• People in occupations exposed to extreme heat, like construction workers and vendors, are particularly vulnerable.

Reasons for Increased Heatwaves in India:

• Urban factors like increased paved surfaces and reduced tree cover contribute to higher temperatures.
• The urban heat island effect exacerbates ambient temperatures.
• Rising global temperatures, including night-time temperatures, lead to more frequent and intense heatwaves.
• Climate change results in higher UV intensity in medium-high heat wave zones.

Government Initiatives to Combat Climate Change:

• National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) covering missions on various environmental aspects.
• International Solar Alliance (ISA) promoting solar energy adoption.
• State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCC) for localized strategies.
• FAME Scheme for E-mobility to encourage eco-friendly vehicles.
• Initiatives like AMRUT, Ujjwala Yojana, UJALA scheme, and Swachh Bharat Mission for sustainable development.

Future Strategies:

• Development of a localized climate risk atlas at a national scale.
• Enhanced research and development efforts to achieve climate-related goals.
• Identification of heat hot-spots and timely implementation of Heat Action Plans.
• Policy interventions and coordination across health, water, and power sectors.
• Promotion of traditional adaptation practices and sustainable design features.
• Democratization of climate data and collaboration with other nations for climate action.