Karnataka experiences heat wave conditions; advisories issued for Telangana and other southern states.
Published Mar 04, 2025 | 11:13 AM ⚊ Updated Mar 04, 2025 | 11:13 AM
Rising Temperatures Trigger Heatwave Warnings in Southern India.
Synopsis: The IMD reported heat wave conditions in isolated pockets of Coastal Karnataka and has predicted a gradual increase in temperatures across Andhra Pradesh over the next few days. While there are no official warnings yet for Telangana, Kerala, or Tamil Nadu, residents in these states are advised to stay alert as temperatures continue to rise.
Southern India is experiencing the onset of summer with rising temperatures, prompting heatwave warnings in certain regions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported heat wave conditions in isolated pockets of Coastal Karnataka on Monday, 3 March, and has predicted a gradual increase in temperatures across Andhra Pradesh over the next few days.
While there are no official warnings yet for Telangana, Kerala, or Tamil Nadu, residents in these states are advised to stay alert as temperatures continue to rise.
Exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, headaches, and rapid heartbeat. Heat stress can also exacerbate chronic conditions like cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
Stay Hydrated: Drink sufficient water regularly, even if not thirsty. Carry water when traveling and consume beverages like lemon water, buttermilk, or fruit juices with added salt. Include seasonal fruits and vegetables with high water content in your diet.
Stay Covered: Wear loose, light-colored cotton clothing. Use umbrellas, hats, or other head coverings when exposed to direct sunlight. Always wear footwear outdoors.
Stay Indoors: Remain in well-ventilated and cool places during peak heat hours. Keep windows and curtains closed during the day to block direct sunlight and open them at night to let cooler air in.
Infants, young children, pregnant women, outdoor workers, individuals with mental illnesses, those physically ill (especially with heart conditions or high blood pressure), and people from cooler climates are more susceptible to heat stress. It’s crucial to monitor their health closely and provide appropriate care.
Avoid stepping out in the sun, especially between noon and 3 pm, when temperatures peak.
Strenuous activities during the afternoon should be avoided, as excessive physical exertion in extreme heat can lead to heat-related illnesses.
Walking barefoot in the sun is also not advisable, as the ground can become extremely hot and cause burns or discomfort.
Cooking during peak summer hours should be minimised, and it is essential to ensure that kitchens and cooking areas are well-ventilated to prevent overheating.
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated soft drinks should be avoided, as they contribute to dehydration rather than preventing it.
Similarly, consuming high-protein foods and stale food can put additional strain on the body, making it harder to cope with the heat.
One of the most crucial precautions is never leaving children or pets in parked vehicles, as temperatures inside can rise dangerously high within minutes, leading to severe health risks or even fatalities.
Workplace measures: Ensure availability of cool drinking water and shaded work areas. Schedule strenuous tasks during cooler parts of the day and increase the frequency of rest breaks.
Training and awareness: Educate workers about the risks of heat-related illnesses and implement a “buddy system” to monitor symptoms. Ensure first aid providers are available, and an emergency response plan is in place.
If someone exhibits symptoms like high body temperature, confusion, or unconsciousness, seek immediate medical attention. While waiting for help, move the person to a cool place, apply cold water to large areas of the skin or clothing, and fan them as much as possible.
As temperatures continue to rise in the coming days, the need for vigilance cannot be overstated.
The IMD advises residents to stay informed through official weather updates and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
With collective awareness and preventive measures, the impact of heat waves can be minimized, ensuring the well-being of communities across southern India.
(Edited by Muhammed Fazil.)
