BENGALURU: India Meteorological Department (IMD) Tuesday issued a heatwave warning for Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada districts in Karnataka for the next three days, forecasting maximum temperatures hitting the 37-39°C band. With high humidity levels ranging between 40% and 50%, the three coastal districts might feel more heat than what the mercury reading suggests.
IMD has said prolonged exposure to extreme heat – especially between noon and 3pm – could lead to exhaustion and heatstroke in extreme cases. Those at highest risk include infants, the elderly, outdoor workers and individuals with chronic illnesses. Symptoms of heat-related illnesses include dizziness, nausea, headaches, excessive sweating, and muscle cramps.
Unlike inland regions, where heatwave criteria are based solely on temperature thresholds, coastal districts follow a different pattern. Here, moisture levels often exceed 80%, making conditions more oppressive, leading to excessive sweating, dehydration, fatigue and increased risk of heat-related illnesses.
N Puviarasan, a senior scientist with IMD, said the prevailing easterly winds over Karnataka are playing a key role in the soaring temperatures. “These winds move from land to the coast, and when they peak, they sometimes draw in moisture from the Arabian Sea, increasing humidity levels along the coastline. Additionally, the land heats up significantly during the day, and this warm air moves toward the coast, raising temperatures further,” the scientist said.
“Last year, we saw different wind patterns that brought in cooler, drier air. But this year, easterly and southeasterly winds are dominating, causing temperatures to rise rapidly. The real summer heat will intensify in April and May when direct sunlight reaches its peak,” Puviarasan added.
