As summers gear up, Karnataka is preparing for a heatwave that could be one of the most strenuous heatwaves in years. Rumors and reports have swirled surrounding record-breaking temperatures, and many have asked: Could the mercury really hit a staggering 47 degrees Celsius in Karnataka? Here's a closer examination of the latest forecast, what are the hot spots where it was projected to take place according to current statistics, and the meteorological department official stance in view.
The 47°C Warning: Truth or Myth?
Though the state average hovers between 36 to 42°C during peak summer, recent meteorological models showed that some areas of North Karnataka might tip towards the high 40s. Despite the fact that 47°C is a much-read extreme but seldom encountered figure in the Deccan Plateau, Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has added that extreme heat events "are getting more frequent as the consequence of El Niño and urban heat islands".
Traditionally, other districts such as Kalaburagi, Raichur, and Vijayapura have occasionally reached the 45°C temperature range. It remains a distinct (but disturbing) prospect that the current pattern, whereby dry winds from the north dominate, might even come to a 47°C level in these “thermal pockets.”
Regions Most at Risk
It is anticipated that the state will have a split weather pattern:
- North Interior Karnataka (NIK): Districts including Kalaburagi, Bagalkote and Koppal are frontline victims. These regions do not have the cooling effect of the sea, and are susceptible to hot heatwaves.
- South Interior Karnataka (SIK): Bengaluru and Mysuru might not see 47°C or so but would likely have three to five°C above-normal temperatures pushing Bengaluru beyond its record high of 39.2°C.
- Coastal Karnataka: Harsh humidity levels will make 35°C feel even like 45°C. Therefore, the results will cause the RealFeel or Heat Index value to be high.
Why is it so Hot This Time?
Meteorologists cite three major factors:
- The Pre-Monsoon Showers Are Delayed: The absence of "Mango Showers" in March and early April has made the soil “dry", and the sun then heats ground up faster.
- Anticyclonic Circulation The wind patterns are also causing cool sea breezes to not penetrate to the hinterland.
- Urbanization: In places like Bengaluru and Hubballi, the “Concrete Jungle” effect traps heat and hampers nighttime cooling.
IMD Safety Guidelines
Based on the dire forecast, government is expected to give a formal advisory:
- Avoid Peak Sun: Stay indoors between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
- Hydrating: Step up your water intake even though you don't feel thirsty.
- Labour Laws: Changes in work hours of construction and agricultural workers to avoid midday sunlight.
While 47°C has been set as the highest limit in the forecast, the underlying message is clear: Karnataka is on the way toward a brutal summer. Whether or not the record is broken, the heat will likely be severe enough to put people at risk.
