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On a scorching day in New Delhi, a report emerged that the temperature had reached an unprecedented 52.9 degrees Celsius at the Mungeshpur automatic weather station. This reading, if accurate, would be the highest temperature ever recorded in India. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) is currently investigating the validity of this data.
The Record-Breaking Heatwave
Delhi has been experiencing extreme heat, with several parts of the city recording temperatures between 45 to 50 degrees Celsius. The reported 52.9 degrees in Mungeshpur stands out as an anomaly, prompting a detailed investigation by IMD.
Background on Delhi’s Weather Stations
Delhi hosts 20 monitoring stations to track weather conditions. On the day in question, 14 of these stations recorded temperatures significantly lower than Mungeshpur, averaging around 45-50 degrees Celsius. This stark difference raised questions about the accuracy of the Mungeshpur reading.
Investigating the Temperature Reading
Dr. M Mohapatra, IMD Director General, stated that a team of specialists has been dispatched to Mungeshpur to verify the sensor’s functionality. The station’s reading being an outlier necessitates this scrutiny.
Possible Reasons for Anomalous Readings
- Sensor Malfunction: The most straightforward explanation could be a fault in the temperature sensor at Mungeshpur.
- Local Factors: Specific local conditions, such as heat being trapped by nearby structures, might have contributed to the unusually high reading.
Official Statements and Actions
The IMD has emphasized that the recorded 52.9 degrees is not yet official and is under verification. Earth Sciences Minister Kiren Rijiju echoed this, noting the improbability of such a high temperature and the need for confirmation.
Understanding the Heatwave
IMD regional head Kuldeep Srivastava explained that parts of Delhi, particularly its outskirts like Mungeshpur, Narela, and Najafgarh, are among the first to experience hot winds from Rajasthan. These hot winds significantly elevate temperatures in these areas.
Historical Context of Temperature Records
The previous highest recorded temperature in Delhi was 49.2 degrees Celsius in 2002. The current readings, therefore, are notably higher, marking a significant increase in the city’s heat levels.
Health and Safety Concerns
The extreme temperatures have prompted the IMD to issue a red alert for Delhi, advising the population on the severe health risks associated with such heat. The alert warns of a high likelihood of heat illnesses and heat strokes, especially for vulnerable groups.
Climate Change and Heatwaves
India has always faced harsh summer temperatures, but climate change has intensified these conditions, making heatwaves more frequent and severe. This trend poses significant health risks and challenges for urban infrastructure.
Power Demand Surge
Delhi’s power demand soared to an all-time high of 8,302 megawatts due to increased use of air-conditioning, highlighting the strain on the city’s electrical infrastructure during extreme heat conditions.
Regional Comparisons
Other regions in India also reported high temperatures, with Phalodi in Rajasthan reaching 51 degrees Celsius and Sirsa in Haryana recording 50.3 degrees Celsius. These comparisons underscore the widespread impact of the heatwave across northern India.
Weather Predictions and Respite
A slight decrease in temperatures was observed in southern Rajasthan due to moist winds from the Arabian Sea. Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models suggest a gradual reduction in heatwave conditions, bringing some respite to the region.
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Conclusion
The investigation into the 52.9 degrees Celsius reading at Mungeshpur is crucial for accurate weather reporting and public safety. As Delhi continues to battle extreme heat, understanding and verifying such data becomes essential in managing the city’s response to climate challenges.
