India is currently experiencing its longest heatwave on record, with temperatures soaring over 45ºC in parts of northern India. The head of India’s Meteorological Department, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, warned that if precautionary measures are not taken, heatwaves will become more frequent, durable, and intense.
India, the world’s third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, has committed to achieving a net zero emissions economy by 2070. However, the country is currently heavily reliant on coal for power generation, contributing to the increase in carbon monoxide, methane, and chlorocarbons concentration in the atmosphere.
Scientific research shows that climate change is causing heatwaves to become longer, more frequent, and more intense. The latest heatwave in New Delhi saw temperatures matching the city’s previous record high of 49.2ºC. The electricity grid faced challenges with a record peak power demand of 8,302 megawatts.
Although a faulty sensor recorded a temperature of 52.9ºC in a Delhi suburb, Mr. Mohapatra confirmed the issue and emphasized the importance of regular inspection of weather stations.