CLIMATE HAZARDS AND VULNERABILITY ATLAS OF INDIA BY IMD
What is the Climate Hazards and Vulnerability Atlas of India?
The Climate Hazards and Vulnerability Atlas of India is a tool developed by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to provide impact-based early warning services for the thirteen most hazardous meteorological events, including heat waves. This Atlas uses Geographic Information System (GIS) tools and is available on the IMD Pune website.
How is the Atlas useful?
The Atlas offers detailed district maps showing hazard events and vulnerability for each month and annually. It is based on climatological data, population, housing density, and statistical methods. Vulnerability maps in the Atlas utilize data from IMD's “Annual Disastrous Weather Reports.”
Who are the most affected by these climate hazards?
The primary victims of these hazardous events are often agricultural laborers, coastal community dwellers, and people living below the poverty level who have mostly outdoor occupations.
What does the vulnerability atlas for heat waves indicate?
The atlas shows that 13% of districts and 15% of the population are moderately to very highly vulnerable to heat waves, while 4% of districts and 7% of the population are highly vulnerable, with Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh being the most susceptible states.
What measures has IMD taken to mitigate the effects of heat waves?
IMD has improved monitoring and early warning systems, significantly reducing life and property loss. Collaborations with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and local health departments have led to the implementation of Heat Action Plans (HAPs) in 23 states, which include forewarnings and advisories for heat waves based on NDMA guidelines.
How are heat wave warnings disseminated?
Heat wave bulletins are issued daily at 1600 hrs IST with a 5-day forecast, using color codes to indicate the expected impact of heat waves. These bulletins are distributed by Meteorological Centres and Regional Meteorological Centres at district levels.
What platforms are used to convey heat wave information?
IMD utilizes various platforms including video messages on social media channels like YouTube, Facebook, WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. Additionally, dedicated state websites provide district-specific information, and sector-specific bulletins are also available for the health and agriculture sectors.
Who is responsible for implementing the heat action plan?
The implementation and effective monitoring of the heat action plan are the responsibilities of the respective State Governments.
SRIRAM's
Share:
Get a call back
Fill the below form to get free counselling for UPSC Civil Services exam preparation
