Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Bengaluru has been witnessing unusually high temperatures over the past few days as rainfall has decreased and the southwest monsoon has weakened. On Tuesday, the city recorded a maximum temperature of 33.6 degrees Celsius, making it the hottest July day in over 100 years. According to the India Meteorological Department,
this was the highest July temperature recorded since 1914, surpassing the previous record of 33.3 degrees Celsius set on July 1, 1914.
Bengaluru's Increasing Temperatures
Usually, Bengaluru's July temperatures stay around 2 to 3 degrees Celsius above normal. However, on Tuesday, the temperature was 5.3 degrees Celsius higher than the average, making it an unusually hot day. Several eastern parts of the city, especially areas beyond HAL Airport, recorded even higher temperatures, with the mercury reaching 34 degrees Celsius.
What is Causing Bengaluru's Dry Weather Conditions?
IMD scientists stated that the extreme heat was mainly caused by dry weather and the developing El Niño, which has weakened the southwest monsoon and reduced rainfall in the region. IMD scientist C.S. Patil explained that longer dry spells are common during El Niño years. He added that there are currently no strong global or regional weather systems supporting the revival of the monsoon over southern India.
Another weather factor, the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), is currently in a neutral phase, meaning ocean temperatures are close to normal and are not contributing to stronger monsoon activity.
The Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO), a weather system that influences rainfall patterns in India, is currently positioned farther east over the Pacific Ocean. Its location is limiting monsoon activity and reducing rainfall in many parts of the country.
According to Patil, Bengaluru's chances of receiving good rainfall now depend on the formation of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. If such a system develops, it could improve rainfall conditions and bring relief from the ongoing heat.