Study Reveals Alarming Rise in Extreme Weather Events Across India

A study by IPE Global and Esri India finds over 84% of Indian districts are vulnerable to severe heatwaves, with 70% also experiencing increased extreme rainfall events. The study highlights a significant rise in the frequency and intensity of these weather phenomena over recent decades.

Over 84% of Indian districts are at risk from extreme heatwaves, while 70% are grappling with increased frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events, according to a study by IPE Global and Esri India. The report underscores a significant rise in these extreme weather events over the past decades.

Abinash Mohanty, Head of Climate Change and Sustainability Practice at IPE Global, and the study's author, highlighted the ramifications of a 0.6°C temperature rise in the past century. He warned that about 8 out of 10 Indians will likely face extreme weather events by 2036. The study calls for hyper-granular risk assessments and climate-risk observatories.

Agendra Kumar, Managing Director of Esri India, emphasized the necessity of a data-driven approach for informed policy-making and resilience strategies. The use of GIS technology could aid in disaster management and resilient infrastructure planning. The study notes the combined impact of extreme heat and rainfall in states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand.