India Meteorological Department Warns of Severe Heatwave Conditions
Context: The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings about severe heatwave conditions impacting large parts of eastern India and the Gangetic Plain, following the waning phase of the strong El Niño of 2023. This underscores the complexity of assessing the impact of global warming on local weather patterns, with the presence of anticyclones intensifying the […]
Expansion of Glacial Lakes in Himalayan Region
Context: Recent satellite monitoring data from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has revealed a significant expansion of glacial lakes in the Himalayan region between 1984 and 2023. This expansion raises concerns about potential risks for downstream areas, highlighting the need for further attention and monitoring of glacial dynamics in the region. Relevance: GS I: […]
IITM Study Shows Tenfold Increase in Marine Heatwaves
Context: A recent study conducted by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) in Pune has revealed a significant surge in marine heatwaves, potentially leading to intensified cyclones. The study indicates a staggering tenfold increase in marine heatwave duration, escalating from 20 days to 220–250 days per year. Relevance: GS I: Geography Dimensions of the […]
Warming of the Indian Ocean
Context: While India may currently be experiencing heatwaves, the potential prospect of a generous monsoon, as anticipated by the India Meteorological Department, might offer some psychological relief. However, looking ahead, there are significant concerns as per a recent study from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology in Pune. Relevance: GS3- Climate Change Mains Question: Examine the rate […]
What is Lightning?
Context: A new study of lightning-related deaths in Bihar has revealed that various districts of Bihar were vulnerable to this natural hazard, recording the highest casualty rate per million population. The study examined data from the 2017-2022 period and found that 1,624 people died and 286 were injured due to lightning. Relevance: GS I- Geography […]
Monsoon Prediction in India
Context: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a plentiful monsoon season. The forecast indicates that rainfall from June to September is anticipated to exceed the average of 87 cm, with an expected increase of 6%. This is a notably assertive prediction from the agency, which typically refrains from indicating either surplus or deficit rainfall in its April forecasts. […]
Above Normal Monsoon for India in 2024
Context: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted an “above normal” monsoon rainfall for India between June and September this year. Remarkably, this is the first time in a decade that the IMD has forecasted “above normal” rainfall at the initial stage, nearly 45 days ahead of the onset of the four-month monsoon season. This […]
13 East-Flowing Rivers Between Mahanadi and Pennar Run Dry
Context: According to data released by the Central Water Commission (CWC), at least 13 east-flowing rivers between the Mahanadi and Pennar basins are currently devoid of water. This alarming situation underscores the severity of the water crisis affecting these regions and highlights the urgent need for sustainable water management practices, conservation efforts, and effective water […]
Major Earthquake Strikes Taiwan
Context: Taiwan experienced a powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake, marking the strongest seismic event in the region in the last 25 years. The quake’s epicentre was situated a mere 18 kilometres south-southwest of Hualien County in eastern Taiwan. Being located along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” where 90% of the world’s earthquakes occur, Taiwan remains susceptible […]
About Swell Waves
Context: Recently, swell waves inundated coastal areas in central and southern districts of Kerala. Relevance: GS I: Geography About Swell Waves Formation of Swell Waves Characteristics of Swell Waves Early Warning Systems in India -Source: The Hindu