March in Bengaluru, once anticipated for its potential rainfall, instead witnessed scorching temperatures, exacerbating the city’s persistent water crisis. With hopes pinned on a rainy reprieve, residents found themselves grappling with above-normal daytime temperatures, aggravating an already dire situation.
Last week, Bengaluru experienced an unrelenting heatwave, with Friday marking a peak of 36.6°C, ranking among the highest recorded temperatures in 15 years. Saturday saw a further surge, with the mercury soaring to 37°C, marking the highest March temperature in half a decade.
Attributed to a blend of global warming and the El Niño effect, causing elevated Pacific Ocean temperatures, experts warn of prolonged heat spells ahead. Projections suggest Bengaluru’s temperatures will hover between 35-36°C this week. However, Northern Karnataka braces for even more severe conditions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded the alarm, issuing a heatwave warning for North Karnataka from Tuesday to Thursday. Heatwave alerts are raised when local temperatures exceed 40°C and escalate 5-6°C above regional norms.
North Interior Karnataka, encompassing districts like Bagalkot, Bellari, Hampi, Raichur, Gadag, and Gangavathi, is under heightened vigilance, with a “yellow watch” advisory urging residents to stay informed about the impending hot weather.
Meanwhile, Ballari district has been sweltering under temperatures surpassing 40°C for over a week. The relentless heatwave has led to a surge in hospitalizations, particularly among children under 10, suffering from dehydration, fever, and vomiting.
Local authorities in Ballari have issued advisories, urging citizens to avoid direct sunlight during peak hours (1 PM to 4 PM) and take necessary precautions to mitigate health risks. With forecasts indicating potential highs of 45°C, the scorching conditions are expected to persist, emphasizing the critical need for precautionary measures to ensure public safety amidst the relentless heatwave.
Read More: Water Scarcity Grips Dakshina Kannada District as Summer Intensifies
