Heatwaves on land and depressions in the sea have started early in India this year because of an unexpected climatic anomaly which could be linked to global warming.
In the plains, a heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature reaches 40 degrees Celsius (°C) and at least 4.5 notches above normal. On April 9, 2022, the temperature was 42.4°C, the highest in April in the last five years.
This is also the first time in 72 years that the first half of April has seen this kind of heat. Parts of northwest and central India are expected to see more frequent heat waves in April from now on.
India also saw the warmest March in 122 years this time around. Why is this happening and how many heat waves are we going to see this year. Watch this video to find out more.
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