Karnataka sizzles, IMD hints at 'heat wave' in coast

BENGALURU: With Karnataka heading closer to its peak summer days, meteorologists have hinted at possible 'heat wave' conditions in coastal districts over the next two weeks with maximum temperature likely to go up by three degrees Celsius from the normal range, touching 38-39 degrees Celsius.
Besides, increased humidity level is expected to cause more discomfort in the region.Similarly, mercury levels across north-interior Karnataka districts are likely to go up to 43-44 degrees Celsius.
Already reeling under severe 'heat wave' conditions, several parts of Karnataka are witnessing a maximum temperature of 36-37 degrees Celsius. "Kalaburagi and adjoining districts in north Karnataka region have already crossed 40 degrees Celsius in the last couple of days.
Places such as Mysuru and other districts in south-interior Karnataka are also seeing maximum temperature of 36-37 degrees Celsius, which is 2-3 degrees more than the normal temperature for the region," explained A Prasad, scientist at the Indian Meteorological Department, Bengaluru.
"Temperature is expected to go up by 2-3 degrees Celsius in coastal Karnataka districts. While the normal temperature during summer for these districts is between 33-35 degrees Celsius, it is likely to touch 37-38 degrees Celsius, creating heat wave conditions in the region. The increased humidity levels along the coast will only add to the growing discomfort among people," Prasad clarified.
Listing out reasons for the increased temperature, Prasad explained: "The major reason is that we are moving towards peak summer days all over Karnataka and temperature will be 3 degrees above normal in coastal areas and 2 degrees in northern and southern parts of the state.
The heat will be palpable in coastal places due to variations in the rate of cooling. While the coastal districts are likely to witness convectional rainfall in a few days, temperature will shoot up alarmingly subsequently, resulting in 'heat wave' conditions."
The officials clarified that 'heat wave' conditions in north-interior Karnataka will only be possible if temperature levels cross 45 degrees Celsius. "Currently, it is expected to touch 44 degrees Celsius. If it crosses 45 degrees and remains constant for two days, we may have to consider the heat wave condition," explained a senior IMD official.
In the meantime, Bengaluru and other adjoining areas in south-interior Karnataka are like to witness 2 degrees more than the normal temperature level. "The city, with an increase of 2 degrees, will witness temperatures of 37-38 degrees Celsius over the next few days," Prasad said.