Holi Heatwave: South Bengal Temperatures Reach Near 38°C

Luna Greco

3 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

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Record-Breaking Temperatures in South Bengal

South Bengal experienced record-breaking high temperatures during Holi, far exceeding historical averages for this time of year. Cities like Kolkata, Howrah, and Midnapore sweltered under the intense heat. This extreme heatwave significantly deviated from the usual Holi weather patterns, causing widespread discomfort and concern. Keywords: High Temperatures, Heatwave, Maximum Temperature, Weather Report, Meteorological Department, Kolkata, Howrah, Midnapore

• Kolkata: Peaked at 37.8°C
• Howrah: Reached 37.5°C
• Midnapore: Experienced a high of 38.2°C
• Other Affected Areas: Several smaller towns and villages in South Bengal also reported temperatures above 35°C.

Comparing this year's readings with the historical average for Holi reveals a significant anomaly. Data from the meteorological department shows a 4-5°C increase compared to the average maximum temperature recorded during the past decade. This unexpected surge in temperature prompted warnings and advisories from weather experts.

Impact on Holi Celebrations

The intense Holi heatwave significantly altered the traditional celebrations. The usual exuberant outdoor festivities were considerably subdued due to the extreme heat. Keywords: Holi Festival, Celebrations, Health Risks, Heatstroke, Precautions

• Reduced Participation: Many people chose to stay indoors, leading to lower participation in outdoor Holi events.
• Modified Festivities: Some communities shortened their celebrations or adapted traditional rituals to minimize sun exposure.
• Increased Health Risks: The heat increased the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and sunburns for those participating in Holi's outdoor activities.

Health Concerns and Safety Precautions

The extreme heat posed serious health concerns, particularly the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and sunburns. Keywords: Heatstroke, Dehydration, Sunburn, Health Tips, Safety Precautions, First Aid

It's crucial to take preventative measures during extreme heat. Here's how to stay safe:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid sugary drinks.
• Limit Sun Exposure: Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm).
• Wear Light Clothing: Opt for light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to reflect sunlight.
• Seek Shade: Find shade whenever possible.
• Recognizing Heatstroke: Symptoms include high body temperature, confusion, rapid pulse, and headache. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms appear.

Meteorological Department Forecasts and Predictions

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued heatwave warnings for South Bengal, predicting the intense heat to continue for several days. Keywords: Weather Forecast, Meteorological Department, Predictions, Heatwave Warning, IMD

Experts advised residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the extreme heat. They emphasized the importance of staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activity during peak hours, and seeking medical attention if heat-related symptoms develop. The IMD continues to monitor the situation and provide regular updates on the weather forecast.

Staying Safe During the Holi Heatwave in South Bengal

The Holi heatwave in South Bengal resulted in record-breaking temperatures, significantly impacting the festival's celebrations and posing substantial health risks. It is crucial to remember that extreme heat can be dangerous. By taking necessary precautions, including staying hydrated, limiting sun exposure, and being aware of heatstroke symptoms, individuals can mitigate the risks associated with the South Bengal heatwave and other periods of extreme heat. Stay informed about weather updates by regularly checking local forecasts. Prioritizing your health during this South Bengal heatwave and other extreme heat events is essential. Remember to continue monitoring for updates regarding the South Bengal heatwave and take appropriate measures to stay safe.