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Many cities including Bangalore facing a huge water crisis, that's the reason many people have decided to stay away from colours this Holi. This is not only reason, diminishing the colours of Holi, another concerning fact is the rising temperature. Yes, Holi is becoming hotter if you compare the temperature of March-April in last few years.
Not only Karnataka or Maharashtra, the recent studies have highlighted a noticeable warming trend across India. March and April experiencing increased temperatures nationwide. This trend poses an augmented risk of extreme heat during the Holi festival, raising health concerns.
Touching the northern tip, the data reveals that regions like Jammu and Kashmir and in the north-east, Mizoram have seen significant temperature rises since 1970.
The likelihood of encountering temperatures above 40°C during late March has escalated, affecting various states and cities across the country. Experts attribute these changes to human-led climate change and emphasize the need for preparedness for more intense summer seasons ahead.
Warming Trends Across India
Analysis of temperature patterns across India shows a consistent rise in March and April temperatures. The northern and western regions, particularly Jammu and Kashmir, have seen the fastest increase in March, with temperatures climbing by 2.8°C since 1970. April's warming is more evenly spread, with Mizoram experiencing a 1.9°C rise. This warming trend extends across the country, signaling a shift in climate patterns.
Increased Heat Risk During Holi
With the arrival of the Holi festival, the risk of experiencing extreme heat has become a significant concern. Previously, encountering temperatures over 40°C in late March was a rarity. However, recent data shows that nine states, including Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Bihar, now face a higher chance of such heat levels.
Maharashtra, in particular, has a 14% probability of reaching these temperatures. The analysis also reveals that 37 cities across India have at least a 1% chance of experiencing 40°C or warmer temperatures, with 11 cities facing a 10% or greater probability. Cities like Bilaspur and Indore have seen a dramatic increase in their risk levels.
Expert Insights on Climate Change
Dr. Andrew Pershing from Climate Central has observed a stark transition to warmer conditions, which he attributes to human-led climate change. Mahesh Palawat from Skymet Weather also acknowledges the role of climate change in rising mercury levels, noting a gradual shift in temperature patterns that has made heatwaves in March more likely. Dr. Akshay Deoras, a Research Scientist at the National Centre for Atmospheric Science, points out that global warming has hastened the arrival of hot weather in India. He warns of the increased vulnerability to heat-related illnesses during outdoor festivals like Holi.
The evolving climate pattern across India, marked by rising temperatures in March and April, highlights the impact of global warming. This trend not only transforms the seasonal landscape but also elevates the risk of heat-related health issues during significant cultural events such as Holi. Experts agree that human actions have played a crucial role in these changes, urging the need for adaptation and preparedness for hotter summers in the future. As we witness these shifts, understanding and addressing the causes of climate change becomes ever more critical.
