9 States witness heatwaves, orange alert for Bengal, Bihar

At least nine states, including Bihar, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh, are experiencing a heatwave with temperatures reaching nearly 45 degrees Celsius. The weather department has issued an orange alert for Bihar and Bengal and forecasted more heatwave conditions in Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Sikkim, and Jharkhand.

In North India, western Uttar Pradesh is predicted to experience a heatwave on Tuesday, while eastern parts will face similar conditions today and tomorrow. However, there is relief likely tomorrow in late evening.

Heatwave conditions are expected to prevail over Gangetic West Bengal and Bihar during April 18-21. Jharkhand is also expected to experience heatwave conditions on April 18 and 19, according to Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

The IMD has advised people to take some precautionary measures, with respect to the impact of the heatwave:

Meanwhile, the weather department predicted that some parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab might get some relief as a western disturbance would bring thunderstorms to the regions.

 Definition of heatwave condition

A heat wave is declared when the maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius in the plains, at least 37 degrees Celsius in coastal areas, and at least 30 degrees Celsius in hilly regions, and the departure from normal is at least 4.5 degrees. The heatwaves can also cause an increase in air pollution and energy demand due to increased air conditioning use.

Orange alert

The orange alert is issue when the authorities believe people are more likely to suffer heat-related symptoms if they are exposed to sunlight for a prolonged period of time. This is a significant health concern for people who are vulnerable to heat illness. The condition poses danger to elderly people as well as children. People with chronic diseases are also vulnerable in this situation. Health experts advise people to stay hydrated by drinking adequate amounts of water – even if you are not thirsty. Use ORS, as well as homemade beverages such as lassi, torani (rice water), lemon water, buttermilk, etc.