In response to unprecedented heat waves forecasted by the Meteorological Centre Bengaluru, the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) has taken proactive steps to disseminate crucial safety information through animated shorts in Kannada. This initiative aims to educate the public on necessary precautions to mitigate the risks associated with soaring temperatures.
Unprecedented Heat Wave Alert
An orange alert has been issued for parts of Karnataka by the Indian Meteorological Department, extending for five days until April 29. Director C P Patil warns that regions including Bagalkote, Vijayapura, Kalaburgi, Yadgir, Raichur, Koppal, Ballari, Tumkur, Mandya, Gadag, Davangere, and Chitradurga are expected to experience temperatures nearing 40 degrees Celsius.
On April 25, temperatures in these areas peaked at 39 degrees Celsius, marking a significant rise. An orange alert signifies an increased likelihood of heat-related illnesses, particularly for individuals exposed to prolonged sunlight or engaged in strenuous physical activity.
Coastal Concerns
Coastal Karnataka is also expected to face extremely hot and humid conditions, posing discomfort for residents. Patil advises special precautions for children and the elderly to minimize heat exposure in these areas.
Protective Measures
To combat the heat wave, KSNDMC recommends avoiding direct sunlight between 12 noon and 3 pm. Protective measures such as wearing sunglasses, using umbrellas, or hats are encouraged. Additionally, aerated drinks should be avoided due to their dehydrating effects, with an emphasis on consuming ample water even when not feeling thirsty. Moreover, leaving children or pets inside parked vehicles is strongly discouraged.
Temperature Trends
Bengaluru is expected to experience maximum and minimum temperatures of around 37 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius, respectively, over the next 48 hours. Notably, Hassan has recorded a significant rise in its minimum temperature, exceeding the usual by 2.8 degrees Celsius.
Rain Relief
Relief from the heat is anticipated with the likelihood of light rain in isolated areas across Bidar, Kalaburgi, Yadgir, Vijayapura, Chikkamagaluru, Hassan, Kodagu, Mysuru, Mandya, and Chitradurga districts on April 29. A similar forecast is predicted for April 30, covering additional districts including Raichur, Koppal, Ballari, Tumkur, Chikkaballapura, Bengaluru Rural, Bengaluru Urban, and Kodagu.
Preparedness and Awareness
KSNDMC remains vigilant and proactive in disseminating critical information, including safety advisories for lightning strikes. They continuously update temperature data every 15 minutes through various platforms, ensuring coordination with the Indian Meteorological Department to safeguard public welfare.
