Geographical and Climatic Factors Influencing Heatwaves
Why in News?
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Heatwaves have become increasingly frequent and intense across India, raising concerns about their underlying causes and prompting discussions on effective mitigation strategies.
Important Key Points:
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Geographical Factors:
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Arid and Semi-Arid Regions: Areas like Northwest India, including Rajasthan and parts of Gujarat, are more susceptible to heatwaves due to their dry climates and sparse vegetation.
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Topographical Influences: Regions with flat terrains and limited forest cover tend to absorb more heat, exacerbating temperature rises.
Climatic Factors:
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Global Warming: The rise in global temperatures has led to an increase in the frequency and severity of heatwaves. Higher baseline temperatures mean that heatwaves start from an already elevated temperature, making them more intense.
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Urban Heat Island Effect: Urban areas, with their concrete structures and limited greenery, trap more heat, leading to higher temperatures compared to surrounding rural areas.
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Prevailing Winds: Westerly winds during summer months can transport hot air masses eastward and southward, spreading heatwave conditions to broader regions.
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