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Understanding the Heat Dome Effect



  Oct 08, 2024

HEAT DOME EFFECT IN INDIA: CAUSES AND IMPACTS


HEAT DOME EFFECT IN INDIA: CAUSES AND IMPACTS

1. What is the Heat Dome Effect?

The heat dome effect is a weather phenomenon where a high-pressure system traps warm air over a large area, leading to prolonged periods of extreme heat. This anti-cyclone system creates hot and dry conditions by blocking cooler air and preventing precipitation, resulting in unusually high temperatures.

2. How is the Heat Dome Effect Affecting Assam?

Assam is currently experiencing record-breaking temperatures of around 40 degrees Celsius, which feel like 50 degrees due to high humidity. Factors like the weakening monsoon circulation, low soil moisture, deforestation, and expanding industrial activity have intensified the heat dome effect in the state. The absence of night-time cooling due to lack of soil moisture has further aggravated the situation, leading to severe health complications and fatalities.

3. What Other Indian States Have Experienced the Heat Dome Effect?

The heat dome effect has also been observed in other parts of India, including:

• Rajasthan and Gujarat: These states frequently experience intense heatwaves during summer, amplified by the heat dome effect, leading to severe droughts and water shortages.

• Delhi: The capital city often sees prolonged heat spells, especially during June and July, worsened by urban heat islands, pollution, and deforestation.

• Maharashtra: The Vidarbha region, including Nagpur, has seen extreme temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius, affecting agriculture and water availability.

• Uttar Pradesh and Bihar: These states have experienced severe heatwaves during summer months, impacting agriculture and the health of vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly and daily wage laborers.

4. What are the Main Causes of the Heat Dome Effect in India?

The primary causes of the heat dome effect in India include:

• Climate Change: Rising global temperatures due to increased greenhouse gas emissions have intensified the frequency and duration of heatwaves across India.

• Deforestation: Loss of forest cover reduces the cooling effect of trees, leading to higher temperatures in regions like Assam, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan.

• Urbanization: Rapid urban development creates heat islands, where concrete and asphalt trap more heat, raising temperatures in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.

• Weak Monsoon Circulation: Disruptions in the monsoonal patterns, influenced by global climatic changes like the collapse of jet streams, have contributed to prolonged dry and hot conditions.

5. What Are the Health and Social Impacts of the Heat Dome Effect?

The heat dome effect has serious health and social impacts, including:

• Heat Strokes: Many regions report increased cases of heat strokes, especially among outdoor workers, farmers, and vulnerable populations.

• Agricultural Losses: High temperatures affect crop yields, leading to economic losses for farmers and food shortages.

• Water Scarcity: Prolonged heat increases evaporation rates, reducing water availability in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.

• Impact on Daily Life: Extreme heat disrupts daily life, forcing school closures, limiting outdoor work, and increasing energy consumption for cooling.

6. How Can India Mitigate the Impact of the Heat Dome Effect?

Mitigating the impact of the heat dome effect requires a multi-pronged approach, including:

• Afforestation and Reforestation: Increasing green cover can help moderate temperatures and improve air quality.

• Urban Planning: Developing green spaces and reducing heat islands in cities can significantly lower local temperatures.

• Water Conservation: Efficient water management, including rainwater harvesting, can help mitigate the impact of heatwaves on water availability.

• Public Awareness: Educating the public about heat-related health risks and safety measures, such as staying hydrated and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours, can reduce fatalities.

• Improving Weather Forecasting: Advanced forecasting and timely warnings can help communities prepare better for extreme heat events.


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