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IMD’s Heatwave Red Alert
Context
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for heatwaves in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and most parts of Western Rajasthan.
Understanding Heatwaves:
- Qualitative Definition: A condition where air temperature becomes dangerously high for humans when exposed.
- Quantitative Definition: Heatwaves are determined based on temperature thresholds:
- In Plains: When maximum temperature reaches 40°C or higher.
- In Hilly regions: When maximum temperature reaches 30°C or higher.
- For Coastal areas: When the maximum temperature departure is 37°C or more than normal.
- Severity Levels:
- Heatwave: Temperature is 4.5°C to 6.4°C above normal.
- Severe Heatwave: Temperature rises more than 6.4°C above normal.
Heatwave Red Alert:
- A red alert signifies an extreme heat warning.
- It indicates a severe heatwave lasting more than two days or a total of more than six heat/severe heatwave days.
- There's a very high risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, infants, and those with chronic diseases.
- Precautionary measures may include early closure of schools to protect children from heat-related risks.
- According to WHO, heatwaves have caused over 166,000 deaths between 1998 and 2017.
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