Heatwave Scorches Unexpected Parts of India

 

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe heatwave warning, predicting that extreme temperatures will persist for the next five days across large parts of east and south peninsular India. The heatwave has shattered longstanding temperature records across various states, with Alappuzha in Kerala experiencing the highest April temperatures ever recorded in these regions. In Bengaluru, two weather stations registered temperatures of 38.5°C and 37.6°C, ranking among the third and fourth hottest April days on record.

The heatwave’s unrelenting grip has impacted the electoral process, with 186 out of the 191 constituencies scheduled for polls falling within regions projected to experience peak temperatures above 35°C over the next five days. A staggering 136 of these constituencies could face temperatures exceeding 40°C, potentially deterring voters from turning out.

There is little prospect of relief from the scorching heat until May 1, with only some thunderstorm activity expected afterwards. The prolonged heat episode in east India is unusual for April, which typically witnesses only one to three days of heatwave conditions. The combination of high temperatures and humidity has led to heat index forecasts ranging from 40–50°C across parts of the East Coast and peninsular South, with some areas potentially reaching a sweltering 60°C.

As the unprecedented heatwave continues, concerns mount over its impact on public health, agricultural productivity, and the critical exercise of democracy through the electoral process.