IMD Set to Revise Heatwave Criteria Amid Kerala's Climate Challenges

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) plans to revise its heatwave criteria due to unsuitability for India's geography, particularly affecting Kerala. The state has experienced unusually high temperatures and humidity, exacerbated by rare southern anti-cyclone formations. Updated criteria will improve heatwave warnings amid ongoing climate change impacts and erratic monsoons.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is poised to overhaul the criteria for declaring heatwave conditions across the nation, as current standards fall short of accommodating India's diverse geographical landscape, according to official sources.

Kerala has notably struggled with existing heatwave warning parameters, which have limited its ability to issue alerts effectively. The summer saw heightened heat and humidity, with forecasts adjusted based on a newfound anti-cyclone system near the Karnataka-Maharashtra coast.

Officials reveal that Kerala experienced unusually high night temperatures due to this rare southern anti-cyclone. The revised criteria aim to enhance the efficacy of warnings amidst climate change-induced challenges, such as rising temperatures and inconsistent monsoon patterns.