'Above normal' temperatures in most of India between April-June, warns IMD

New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday warned that the average temperatures in most parts of India are expected to be "above normal" between April and June.

The IMD, however, said the temperatures in east, east-central and southern India, which include Odisha, coastal Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, are likely to be lower than the usual, indicating that the onset of monsoon will be on time.

The respite, according to the IMD prediction, is that the this year's average temperature, despite being "above normal" in most parts of India, would be slightly lower than 2017.

"Upcoming Hot Weather Season (April to June-AMJ) is expected to have the above normal sub-divisional average seasonal temperatures over most of the meteorological subdivisions of the country except the subdivisions of eastern, east-central and southern parts for the country that are likely to experience slightly below normal seasonal temperatures," the IMD said in a bulletin.

"The AMJ seasonal average temperatures in most of the (meteorological) subdivisions are likely to be cooler than that of last year. Normal heatwave conditions are likely over core heat-wave zone of the country," it added.

"This is also an indication that the onset of monsoon will be on time," M Rajeevan, secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, said, according to PTI. This, however, does not mean there will be no heat-waves this year. "Usually, there are three-four heat-waves every year. This year, we expect it to remain the same," he added.

IMD also said in the bulletin issued on April 1, 2018 - "Yesterday (Saturday), severe heat wave conditions prevailed over some parts of west Rajasthan, heat wave conditions prevailed over some parts of Jammu division, east Rajasthan and east Madhya Pradesh and at one or two pockets over Himachal Pradesh and west Madhya Pradesh. Maximum temperatures were markedly above normal (5.1°C or more) at most parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and west Rajasthan, at some parts of east Rajasthan and at one or two pockets of north Madhya Pradesh, appreciably above normal (3.1°C to 5.0°C) at most parts of Vidarbha, at many parts of rest Madhya Pradesh, at some parts of Marathwada, at one or two pockets of interior Odisha."

Previous years:

2017 was recorded as the hottest year so far by the IMD and other meteorological institutes across the country.

The previous year, 2016, was recorded as the hottest year since 1901. That year, Phalodi in Rajasthan had recorded 51 degrees Celsius, the highest-ever recorded in India by then.

Tips for protection during the heat wave:

Following are some of the tips given by National Disaster Management Authority (content courtesy - NDMA):

- Avoid going out in the sun, especially between 12.00 noon and 3.00 pm.

- Drink sufficient water and as often as possible, even if not thirsty.

- Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose, and porous cotton clothes.

- Use protective goggles, umbrella/hat, shoes or chappals while going out in sun.

- Avoid strenuous activities when the outside temperature is high.

- Avoid working outside between 12 noon and 3 pm.

- While travelling, carry water with you.

- If you work outside, use a hat or an umbrella and also use a damp cloth on your head, neck, face and limbs.

- If you feel faint or ill, see a doctor immediately.

- Use ORS, homemade drinks like lassi, torani (rice water), lemon water, buttermilk, etc which helps to re-hydrate the body.

- Keep your home cool, use curtains, shutters or sunshade and open windows at night.

- Use fans, damp clothing and take bath in cold water frequently.

(With PTI inputs)