Kerala is poised to face potentially record-high temperatures in 2025, following the hottest recorded year in 2024. Experts note that February temperatures are already above average, signaling a risky transition into summer. Climate change poses serious threats to agriculture, health, and the economy, necessitating prompt governmental action and long-term planning.
Kerala’s climatic patterns differ significantly from the rest of India due to its geographic positioning between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. This unique setup allows for a blend of winter, summer, and rainy seasons, leading to a mild, mutable climate. However, climate change has intensified its vulnerability to extreme weather phenomena. After 2024 became the hottest year recorded, early signs in February 2025 suggest even higher temperatures for the state.
Neetha K Gopal, Head of IMD Kerala, clarified that the temperature fluctuations observed are marginal compared to historical averages. “Kerala does not experience harsh winters like the northern states. Yet, February serves as a transition month towards summer, indicating potential extremes in daily temperatures.” The normal temperature is established by averaging the past 30 years, and deviations reflect climate change impacts.
On February 2, temperatures in Thiruvananthapuram reached 35 degrees Celsius, which is two degrees above normal, and no rain is anticipated in the near future. This combination signals hotter days ahead. Gopal warns about the negative effects higher temperatures may have on agriculture and animal husbandry. Long-term strategies are vital for mitigating these impacts, with government agencies advised to act on this information.
“IMD provides regular forecasts to inform various government departments, allowing for precautionary measures. Observations help sectors like irrigation and fisheries prepare for incoming climate uncertainties,” she noted. Rising temperatures can lead to more intense heat waves, posing health risks to humans and livestock. At present, Kerala’s average temperature sits around 35 degrees Celsius, but closer to summer, it may breach 40 degrees Celsius.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has affirmed that 2024 set a record as the warmest year globally. Also, the past decade has seen consistently high temperatures. With every degree of global warming, extreme daily rainfall is projected to increase by 7 percent. Therefore, given Kerala’s delicate ecological zones, concrete measures are crucial to withstand impending climatic extremes well into the future.
The article discusses the ramifications of rising temperatures in Kerala, emphasizing its unique geographic positioning and how it leads to distinct climatic variations compared to other regions of India. The state’s weather patterns are considerably impacted by climate change, with recent years recorded as experiencing unprecedented heat. Experts are warning about the potential dangers of these changes, especially in terms of agriculture, health, and ecological stability, urging long-term planning and adaptation strategies.
In summary, Kerala is experiencing increasingly high temperatures as evidenced by February’s records, which may indicate an even hotter year ahead in 2025. Experts recognize the link between rising temperatures and climate change, predicting adverse impacts on agriculture and health. Timely action by government bodies and the implementation of effective strategies are essential to prepare for the anticipated climatic challenges.
Original Source: www.onmanorama.com
