What will you learn?
1. What record temperatures were recorded in Delhi and Rajasthan?
2. What health impacts did the extreme heatwaves have in India?
3. What measures were taken in response to water shortages in Delhi?
4. What are the forecasts for future heatwaves in India?
5. What steps are necessary to protect the climate in the face of rising temperatures?
Extreme temperatures in Delhi
In Delhi, on Tuesday, some thermometers registered 49.9 degrees Celsius, observed at two measurement stations in Narela and Mungeshpur. According to the Indian Meteorological Department, the temperature was nine degrees higher than forecasted. The record temperature alarmed authorities and residents, prompting the government to call for water conservation. The Indian capital is grappling with a severe water shortage, forcing authorities to organize special deliveries, now only occurring once a day.
Tragic consequences of heatwaves in Rajasthan
In the neighboring state of Rajasthan, in the city of Jaipur, a temperature of 50.5 degrees Celsius was recorded on Tuesday, the highest in the country. Unfortunately, the extreme heatwaves had tragic consequences - three people died from heatstroke. The Meteorological Department issued a red alert of the highest level, warning of the harmful effects of heatwaves on health, especially for infants, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses.
Future under the sign of global warming
Indian summers are usually humid and hot, but meteorologists predict that the country will experience longer and more intense heatwaves in the coming years. The head of the Indian Meteorological Department stated that maximum temperatures in June are likely to remain above average. Extreme weather conditions, such as those that affected Delhi and Rajasthan, could become the new norm in the face of ongoing climate change.
Need for climate protection actions
The extreme heatwaves that hit India are another sign of the urgent need for climate protection measures. Authorities must invest in sustainable solutions to help residents survive the heat, such as efficient water management systems and the creation of green spaces in cities. The international community should also support countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change to prevent humanitarian and ecological disasters