Mysuru, known for its pleasant weather due to large lakes and leafy roads, is now experiencing heatwave conditions as maximum temperatures have hovered between 37°C and 40°C over the past fortnight. According to a report from the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC), the city is locally facing heatwave conditions.
Heatwave Criteria and Current Situation
As per India Meteorological Department (IMD) guidelines, a heatwave is declared when the temperature departure exceeds 4.5°C from the normal or when the maximum temperature crosses 40°C in the plains. In the ongoing season, Mysuru district is witnessing near-brutal above-normal temperatures due to climatological changes, with departures ranging between 2°C and 4°C. The normal maximum temperature for Mysuru in April is around 34°C–35°C.
IMD Forecast and Thunderstorm Warnings
The IMD forecast offers no immediate relief from the heat spell in south interior Karnataka, with maximum temperatures expected to remain well above normal for the next five days. Thunderstorms accompanied by hail and gusty winds of 40–50 kmph are likely at isolated places in the coming days. According to the KSNDMC report valid until May 4, all nine taluks in Mysuru district are categorized under low heat risk areas.
Recorded Temperatures and Contributing Factors
KSNDMC officials reported that several parts of the district recorded 40°C on Tuesday. Tourist spot Talakadu and temple town T Narasipura logged 40°C. Analysis indicates that lack of rainfall has contributed to the continuous rise in temperature. Strong solar radiation due to clear-sky conditions, absence of cloud cover, delay in pre-monsoon showers, dry wind patterns over interior Karnataka, and large-scale climate variability are major causes for the high temperatures.
Environmental Concerns and Call for Action
Environmentalist Parashuramegowda expressed concern over the situation, stating that loss of green cover, disappearance of water bodies, and concrete structures have led to rising temperatures. He urged the government to draw a roadmap to restore ecological balance in the coming years, emphasizing the need for introspection about what awaits the next generation.
