The India Meteorological Department (IMD) plans to issue Heat Index (HI) readings for weather stations across India this summer. These readings, if implemented, will provide the “real feel” temperature in addition to the day’s maximum and minimum temperatures, according to multiple media reports.
The IMD will calculate the Heat Index using various models that incorporate maximum temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and cloud cover. Based on these calculations, the IMD will issue a color-coded warning system: yellow, orange, or red.
Delhi will be among the first cities to receive the Heat Index, particularly at the Safdarjung weather station due to its extensive long-term data on temperature, wind, and humidity.
IMD’s color-coded Heat Index warnings will help residents understand the real feel of the weather and take appropriate actions to stay safe in extreme heat conditions.IMD scientist Kuldeep Srivastava told the Indian Express, “We expect to conduct a heat hazard analysis for the country this summer. We may start with Delhi and then extend it to other regions.
In Delhi, temperatures may reach 40 degrees Celsius, but high humidity makes it feel hotter because the moisture prevents sweat from evaporating, increasing discomfort.”
“We are gathering more data and plan to make this index map based. Although there has been demand for this index for several years, its implementation requires more study.
We aim to make it operational by May or June this year. The index will likely include a color-coded warning indicating the heat index’s impact and recommended actions,” Srivastava added.
Heat Index readings are widely used in tropical countries to gauge the discomfort caused by the combination of humidity and temperature.
The Heat Index often peaks during June and July when humidity levels are around 40-50 percent and temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius in many areas.