Scorching temperatures, relentless sunshine, and absence of rainfall

In April 2016, temperatures had soared to 36.51 degrees Celsius

In April 2024, situation worsened with temperatures at 36.64 degrees Celsius

Karnataka, after a span of eight years, is grappling with what experts are calling its most severe summer yet. The state, which last faced such dire conditions in 2016, is currently reeling under scorching temperatures, relentless sunshine, and a complete absence of rainfall.

The signs of this crisis are stark. In April 2016, temperatures soared above the average, with a recorded average temperature of 36.51 degrees Celsius. Fast forward to April 2024, and the situation has worsened, with the average temperature climbing to 36.64 degrees Celsius.

Also read: Cooling off: 8 refreshing Indian summer beverages to beat the heat

The heatwave has intensified, with a notable increase in the number of days where temperatures have exceeded 37 degrees Celsius. In 2016, there were 11 such days, but this year, the count has surged to 17. Furthermore, the severity of the heat is evident as the number of days where temperatures surpassed 38 degrees Celsius has also risen from 2 in 2016 to 3 in 2024.

This escalation in temperatures paints a grim picture for the state, indicating that the summer of 2024 is set to surpass the hardships endured in 2016. Adding to the distress, Karnataka has been grappling with dry air for six consecutive months, stretching from November of the previous year till now.

The situation is exacerbated by the fact that April 2024 marks the driest April the state has experienced since 1983. With water scarcity looming large and agricultural activities severely impacted, the residents of Karnataka are bracing themselves for what may be a long and arduous summer ahead.