Kolkata, India: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning for South Bengal, predicting scorching temperatures for two to three days starting from 16 March.
According to a bulletin released on Wednesday, dry westerly winds are expected to dominate the region, leading to heatwave conditions in several districts. “Heatwave conditions are very likely in parts of South Bengal from 16 March,” stated the Met department.
A heatwave is officially declared when the maximum temperature exceeds 40°C and is at least five degrees above normal. While such conditions in March are uncommon, they are not unprecedented, according to Met officials.
Temperature Set to Soar
Districts likely to experience heatwave conditions include West Burdwan, Birbhum, Bankura, and West Midnapore, where temperatures are expected to reach or exceed 40°C—at least five degrees above the seasonal average. Meanwhile, the rest of South Bengal may also see temperatures rising three to four degrees above normal.
In Kolkata, the mercury is predicted to climb to around 38°C, significantly higher than the mid-March average of 34°C. “Daytime temperatures are steadily increasing across Jharkhand, Bihar, and Odisha, and dry winds from these states will further elevate temperatures in South Bengal,” a Met official explained.
Precautionary Measures Advised
The IMD has urged residents to take precautions, advising against prolonged exposure to the sun, particularly between 11 am and 4 pm. The bulletin also warned of symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including dizziness, headache, nausea, excessive sweating, and seizures.
“Elderly individuals and those with chronic health conditions should avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, as they are particularly vulnerable,” the advisory stated.
Weather Patterns and Previous Trends
The impending heatwave follows a brief dip in temperatures earlier this month. On 6 March, Kolkata recorded a maximum of 28.8°C, nearly four degrees below normal, with the minimum temperature dropping to just over 18°C the following day. The city had experienced cool and breezy evenings for a short period before the mercury began rising again.
Last summer, South Bengal endured multiple prolonged heatwaves, and the trend appears to be continuing. Meanwhile, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) recently confirmed that 2024 was the warmest year on record, marking the first time global temperatures surpassed the 1.5°C warming threshold.
With temperatures set to soar once again, residents are advised to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.
