February 2023 Sets Record for Hottest Month in 122 Years: IMD
This year, the winter season started with intense cold weather. It was expected that the winter season would be prolonged, but towards the end of January, the weather in North India started to become slightly warm.
However, in February, the situation took an unexpected turn as it broke all previous records of heat waves.
According to the Meteorological Department, the average maximum temperature for February rose to 29.5 degrees Celsius, the highest in more than a century since 1901.
The Indian Meteorological Department has predicted that temperatures in most parts of the country will be higher than normal from March to May.
Some regions in Central and North East India may even experience heat waves in March.
Five hottest Februarys since 1901
2023 - 29.54 degrees
2016 - 29.48 degrees
2006 - 29.31 degrees
2017 - 29.24 degrees
2009 - 29.23 degrees
Advisory issued regarding heat waves
The Union Health Ministry has issued an advisory to prevent heat stroke due to the unusual increase in temperature in some parts of the country.
The advisory includes a list of do's and don'ts for citizens to follow. To prevent heat stroke, citizens are advised to avoid high-protein meals and cooking during peak hours of heat, especially between 12 noon to 3 pm. Additionally, people are advised not to go out in the sun.
In the advisory, the Ministry has also asked the people to drink sufficient amount of water whenever possible even if they do not feel thirsty.
The Health Ministry's advisory also emphasizes the importance of drinking adequate amount of water, even if individuals do not feel thirsty, to prevent heat-related illnesses.
What to eat and what to drink?
The advisory recommends the use of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) and homemade drinks such as lemonade, buttermilk/lassi, and fruit juices with added salt. It also suggests staying indoors in well-ventilated and cool places.
To stay cool in hot weather, it's a good idea to eat fresh fruits that have a lot of water, like watermelon, cucumber, lemon, and orange. You should also wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothes made of cotton.
Using an umbrella, hat, or towel to cover your head can help protect you from the sun.