Are Rising Mercury Levels in February Signalling 2025 to be Hottest Year for Kerala?

Kerala’s climate is uniquely affected by geography, leading to rising mercury levels in February 2025, suggesting it may be warmer than in 2024, the hottest year on record. Local officials indicate variations in temperature and raise concerns for agriculture and public health, asserting the need for proactive measures. Significant attention to climate change impacts is essential as extreme weather conditions may increase.

Kerala’s unique geographic features contribute to its distinct climate, which differs from the rest of the Indian subcontinent. The state experiences interspersed winter, summer, and rainy seasons while grappling with climate change impacts. With 2024 marked as the hottest year in recorded history, preliminary indicators suggest that 2025 may surpass this, as rising temperatures have already been noted in February.

Neetha K. Gopal, Head of IMD Kerala, explains that although Kerala lacks harsh winters, February serves as a transition from winter to summer. This month can exhibit significant temperature fluctuations, which has been observed; for example, the maximum temperature on February 2 in Thiruvananthapuram hit 35 degrees Celsius, exceeding the norm by two degrees. Without rain in the immediate forecast, hotter days are anticipated, leading to climate change implications.

The deviation from the 30-year temperature average indicates the severity of climate change effects. Such changes bear repercussions on agriculture and livestock, necessitating proactive strategies to safeguard these sectors. The IMD issues regular weather forecasts that inform governmental departments, enabling them to prepare for potential climate disruptions effectively.

As temperatures rise, heatwave conditions may emerge, posing serious risks to public health, agriculture, and the economy. Neetha notes that while current temperatures average around 35 degrees Celsius, any rise to 40 degrees Celsius or above would be harmful. Notably, summer officially begins in March, intensifying the sunlight’s impact.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has verified that 2024 was the warmest year on record, with the last decade consistently ranking amongst the hottest. Projections indicate that each degree of global warming could lead to a 7% increase in extreme daily rainfall. Given Kerala’s vulnerability, a strategic approach is essential for managing impending climatic adversities.

Kerala’s climate is shaped by its unique geography, lying between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghat mountains. Unlike the rest of India, it endures distinct seasonal transitions. The region has been increasingly affected by climate change, as evidenced by rising temperatures, making it imperative to assess future weather patterns and their effects on various sectors, particularly agriculture and public health. Recent climatic data indicates that 2024 was previously recorded as the hottest year globally, raising concerns that 2025 may be even warmer. Amidst this, state officials stress the importance of using long-term climate data to prepare for and mitigate the effects of these temperature shifts.

In conclusion, rising temperatures in Kerala are significant indicators of climate change impacting the region. With 2024 recorded as the hottest year to date and predictions for even higher temperatures in 2025, the state must adopt comprehensive measures for future climate resilience. The IMD’s alerts and ongoing temperature monitoring are essential steps in addressing the imminent climatic challenges.

Original Source: www.onmanorama.com

Omar Hassan

Omar Hassan is a distinguished journalist with a focus on Middle Eastern affairs, cultural diplomacy, and humanitarian issues. Hailing from Beirut, he studied International Relations at the American University of Beirut. With over 12 years of experience, Omar has worked extensively with major news organizations, providing expert insights and fostering understanding through impactful stories that bridge cultural divides.

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