India is experiencing an alarming trend of extreme heat, with temperatures exceeding 45°C in various regions, particularly during severe heatwaves. A recent investigation by Reuters has introduced the term “heat storm” to describe a new phenomenon characterised by prolonged and expansive heat events. This term reflects the changing nature of heatwaves, which are now becoming larger and more persistent due to climate change.

The investigation analysed hourly global temperature data from 1960 onwards and consulted numerous climate experts. The findings indicate that extreme heat is no longer confined to isolated incidents; instead, large-scale heat events can overlap, leading to extended periods of elevated temperatures across the globe.

According to Reuters, a heatwave is defined as a minimum of five consecutive days with unusually high temperatures. The newly coined term “heat storm” refers to the most significant events that impact at least 1% of the Earth’s surface at their peak. This classification is not an official meteorological term but rather a conceptual framework developed by the news agency.

Rise in Frequency of Heat Storms

The investigation revealed a significant increase in the frequency of heat storms over the decades. In the 1960s, there were approximately five heat storms annually; however, this number has surged to around 102 per year in the current decade. The most notable event, named Heat Storm Vera, lasted an astounding 367 days from 2023 to 2024, affecting nearly 85% of the planet at various points during its duration.

Notably, the year 2024 has been recorded as the hottest year in history, underscoring the urgency of addressing this phenomenon. The increase in heat storms is closely linked to rising greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide, which has increased by more than 30% since the 1960s. Concurrently, the average area affected by heatwaves and heat storms has expanded more than twelvefold during the same period.

Previously, large-scale heatwaves were considered rare; however, the emergence of heat storms has changed this landscape dramatically. A continuous chain of overlapping heat storms has been observed since July 2008, indicating that the planet has not experienced a break from at least one heat event somewhere in the world.

Implications for India and Global Health

The implications of this analysis are particularly significant for India, where heatwaves are increasingly threatening public health, agriculture, and water resources. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) defines heatwave conditions based on specific temperature thresholds and deviations from normal temperatures for a given location. However, the concept of a “heat storm” transcends these thresholds, highlighting the extensive scale of heat events globally.

As the planet continues to warm, the prevalence of extreme heat is becoming a critical issue, especially for vulnerable nations like India. The increasing frequency and intensity of heat storms require urgent attention and action to mitigate their impacts on various sectors, including health and agriculture.

In conclusion, the introduction of the term “heat storm” by Reuters signifies a new understanding of extreme heat events. As these phenomena become more common, it is essential for policymakers, researchers, and the public to recognise and address the challenges posed by rising temperatures and their far-reaching consequences.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share