Rising temperatures in February may indicate that 2025 could surpass 2024 as the hottest year for Kerala. The state experiences distinct climatic conditions due to its geography. Experts warn of extreme weather implications for health, agriculture, and biodiversity, calling for immediate preventive measures and long-term planning.
Kerala’s climate is notably distinct from that of the broader Indian subcontinent due to its unique geography, which includes its location between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. This results in an intermingling of winter, summer, and monsoon seasons. However, Kerala has been increasingly subject to the adverse effects of climate change, experiencing extreme weather events that question its climate stability.
The record-breaking heat of 2024 has raised concerns as early signs of 2025 potentially being even hotter are already visible. Neetha K Gopal, Head of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Kerala, noted that the state does not experience particularly harsh winters but sees February as a transitional phase towards summer. Therefore, fluctuations in temperature could signal more extreme heat ahead.
Normal temperature averages are derived from data collected over the past 30 years, and deviations from these norms reflect climate change effects. For instance, on February 2 in Thiruvananthapuram, temperatures soared to 35 degrees Celsius, 2 degrees above normal. Gopal warned that without any expected rain or cloud cover, hotter days can be anticipated.
The implications of rising temperatures extend beyond discomfort; they pose threats to agriculture, livestock health, and overall biodiversity. Gopal emphasized the significance of long-term strategies to safeguard these sectors against increased temperatures. Various governmental ministries are taking proactive measures to address potential threats as they arise.
The IMD is regularly issuing weather forecasts that inform governmental and agricultural departments about necessary precautionary actions. These forecasts, which include short-term to long-term predictions, are crucial for planning in areas such as irrigation and fisheries. As temperatures rise, the likelihood of heatwave conditions will increase, which could have dire consequences for public health and the economy.
Recent data from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) underscores the urgency of the situation, confirming that 2024 was the warmest year on record. Those alarming data trends predict severe rainfall increases with every degree of global warming, necessitating immediate action for Kerala’s traditionally fragile ecosystems to withstand upcoming climatic challenges.
Kerala’s unique geographic features give rise to its distinct climatic conditions, unlike other regions in India. The interplay of the Arabian Sea and Western Ghats contributes to a climate that features mild winters and significant seasonal transitions. In recent years, climate change has exacerbated weather extremes in the state, prompting concerns about its future climate stability and the health of its population and ecosystems.
In summary, rising temperatures in Kerala signal severe climate changes that necessitate immediate action to protect health, agriculture, and biodiversity. The IMD’s ongoing climate assessments and forecasts serve vital roles in governmental preparations against potential adversities. With the record-breaking heat of recent years, Kerala must implement long-term strategies to address the challenges ahead.
Original Source: www.onmanorama.com
