Bengaluru, 28 March

Bengaluru residents are bracing themselves for yet another unexpected heatwave, with temperatures soaring up to 35 degrees Celsius in the City.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed the unusual rise in temperatures, which has come amid ongoing concerns about water scarcity in the city.

According to A Prasad, an IMD official, the City has been witnessing above-normal temperatures since late February. While March is typically warm, this year's rise is exceeding the normal temperatures of 33 degrees Celsius and reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius, almost a 2-degree rise.

Prasad attributed the heatwave to a factor of El Nino effect that has played a role, but it is expected to weaken after March. However, the lack of pre-monsoon showers has also contributed to the dry and hot conditions.

"It is because of the El Nino effect that the precipitation and cloud formations are getting difficult. Once the effect weakens in another week, we can expect a slight decrease in the temperatures. This can even disrupt typical rain patterns, which is why we did not have any pre-monsoon showers this month," Prasad said.

Meanwhile there's a glimmer of hope for some relief in April as the IMD predicts rainfall, which is expected to be below average, around 11 cm. "While this might offer temporary respite, it's not enough to address the water shortage entirely. It can help the City to reduce the heat for briefly at least," Prasad informed.

The heatwave has been the cause of concern for several districts in Karnataka, including Kalaburgi and Bagalkot, where the mercury has soared over 40 degrees Celsius.

However, Prasad said the reason why the temperatures in Bengaluru are not reaching such extreme levels is because the City is on an elevated platform, whereas these places are a bit downhill.

The ongoing heatwave has further exacerbated the water crisis in the city, with many residents struggling to find enough water for their daily needs. The government has urged people to conserve water and take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.