Rising temperatures in Kerala are suggestive of potentially hotter conditions for 2025, following 2024’s record heat. The unique climate of the state, influenced by geographical features, makes it vulnerable to climate extremes. Recent weather forecasts reveal increasing temperatures may lead to adverse consequences for health and agriculture, necessitating immediate and strategic responses.
Kerala’s climate is unique compared to the rest of the Indian subcontinent, influenced by its geographical features, which result in overlapping seasons. However, the state continues to suffer from climate-related disasters exacerbated by climate change. After 2024 recorded the highest temperatures in history, indications suggest that 2025 may surpass that record in Kerala as well.
According to Neetha K. Gopal, Head of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Kerala, shifts in seasonal temperatures have been minimal. In February, a transitional month leading into summer, temperature variations can be significant. For instance, a maximum temperature of 35 degrees Celsius was recorded in Thiruvananthapuram, 2 degrees above the norm. With little chance of rain anticipated in the coming week, a hotter climate is expected.
Neetha emphasizes the adverse effects of climate extremes on agriculture and livestock, underscoring the necessity for long-term strategies to mitigate rising temperatures. The IMD provides ongoing weather forecasts that aid relevant government departments in preparing for future climatic challenges. Such forecasts can assist sectors like irrigation and fisheries in managing potential weather uncertainties.
Notably, increasing temperatures have the potential to create heatwave conditions. In Kerala, where residents are accustomed to an average temperature of 35 degrees Celsius, increases beyond 40 degrees Celsius might have detrimental health impacts on humans, animals, and plants and could negatively affect the economy. As February concludes and summer approaches in March, the sun’s rays become more intense.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) highlighted that 2024 stands as the warmest year on record, with the last decade featuring several record-breaking temperatures. Additionally, projections indicate that each degree of global temperature rise correlates to a 7 percent increase in extreme daily rainfall. Consequently, Kerala must implement robust measures to address potential severe climatic changes, especially in its vulnerable regions.
Kerala’s distinct climatic conditions, influenced by its geographical location between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, create an environment where seasons overlap. Despite its unique climate, Kerala has not been immune to the impacts of climate change, which have resulted in increasing temperatures and associated disasters. The trends observed so far indicate a worrying trajectory concerning rising mercury levels and the potential for severe climatic impacts in the near future.
In summary, Kerala faces the prospect of experiencing one of its hottest years in 2025, building on the unprecedented temperatures recorded in 2024. As temperatures soar, the adverse effects on agriculture, livestock, and public health could be profound. Hence, it is imperative for governmental bodies to adopt long-term strategies and plans to curb these impacts, ensuring the state’s resilience against climate change.
Original Source: www.onmanorama.com
