Kerala’s February temperatures are rising, suggesting potential extremes for 2025. Neetha K Gopal from IMD Kerala notes slight deviations from past averages. The effects of climate change on agriculture and health are alarming, with rising concerns about heat-related risks as summer nears. The state must prepare strategies to address imminent climate challenges before the weather worsens.
Rising temperatures in February 2025 in Kerala raise concerns about potential climatic impacts, as the state has already faced significant temperature increases. Kerala’s unique geophysical characteristics lead to an unusual climate pattern, differentiating it from other regions in India. February typically marks a transition from winter to summer, potentially resulting in a significant variance in temperature.
According to Neetha K Gopal, Head of IMD Kerala, while February is usually not harsh, the observed temperature this February has been irregular. For instance, Thiruvananthapuram recorded a maximum temperature that was notably higher than normal at 35 degrees Celsius. Without immediate rain to modulate this heat, a continuation of warm days appears likely, triggering alerts from weather authorities.
This increase in temperature is symptomatic of broader climate change effects, which negatively impact agriculture and biodiversity. Authorities, including various ministries and government bodies, are urged to formulate long-term strategies to mitigate these impacts on vital sectors. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) continuously provides weather updates, assisting pertinent departments in preparing for climate uncertainties.
Prolonged exposure to extreme heat poses health risks especially as summer approaches, typically amplifying heat-related conditions. Gopal cites that temperatures rising above 40 degrees Celsius could threaten human, animal, and plant health, alongside the state’s economy. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has established that 2024 was the hottest year recorded, and projections indicate ongoing temperature rises will exacerbate weather extremes, with serious implications for Kerala’s delicate environment.
With every degree of global warming expected to result in increased extreme weather conditions, Kerala faces a pressing need for comprehensive strategies to withstand impending climatic challenges. The preparation and implementation of robust responses to ensure resilience against increasing temperatures and rainfall are critical for the state’s ecological and economic stability.
Kerala’s climate is shaped by its geographical location, flanked by the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. This positioning creates a unique weather pattern that includes distinct winter, summer, and monsoon seasons. Recent climatic trends, however, indicate that Kerala has not been immune to the effects of global warming, with increasing temperatures leading to environmental and societal challenges, particularly in agriculture and public health.
The rising mercury levels in February forecast a troubling trend for Kerala as it braces for increased heat in 2025. Authorities highlight the need for strategic action in response to climate shifts affecting agriculture and health. The situation calls for urgent collaboration among various sectors to develop and implement effective measures to combat adverse climatic changes and safeguard the state’s ecology and economy.
Original Source: www.onmanorama.com
