Mysuru, once celebrated for its cool climate, is now grappling with an unexpected heatwave even before summer begins. On February 2, the district recorded a scorching 34.9°C, marking the highest February temperature since 2020, when it touched 35.05°C on February 1. Experts warn that rising temperatures in the coming months could be a direct consequence of climate change.
The all-time highest February temperature for Mysuru remains 36.1°C, registered on February 28, 1931. As per the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the usual maximum temperature for February hovers around 31.1°C.
Rising Heat Raises Alarms
Over the past few days, Mysuru has experienced persistent dry and hot weather, discouraging people from stepping outdoors during midday. Nighttime temperatures have also remained high, fluctuating between 16°C and 17°C. Residents fear that if pre-monsoon showers fail between April and May, the heat may become unbearable.
“This year, the cold wave was brief. Post-Sankranti, the heat has been intense,” remarked Nanjegowda, a farmer from Bogadi. He noted that in earlier years, chillier weather lasted until Mahashivaratri, but not this time.
G. Srinivasa Reddy, former director of KSNDMC, stated that Mysuru, like many global regions, is experiencing a warmer climate compared to previous years. Kodagu, known as the ‘Kashmir of the South,’ has also recorded unseasonably high temperatures, with 32.9°C on February 1, 32.7°C on February 2, and 32.3°C on February 3.
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