IMD’s State of Climate Report: 2019 the seventh warmest year since 1901

On January 7, 2020, the International Meteorological Organisation released its “State of Climate Report” for the year 2019. According to the report, the climate change has claimed 1,659 lives in India in the year 2019. 2019 is the seventh warmest year since 1901. The temperatures were not high as compared to 2016 (the warmest year so far) mainly due to weak El Nino in the Pacific.

Highlights of the report

The extreme weather events that occurred in the country in the year 2019 were all linked to climate change. It includes cyclones, floods, heat waves, cold waves, landslides, etc. Of all the states, Bihar reported highest deaths (650) due to extreme weather events. Of these 300 died in floods and 350 died due to heat waves. Following Bihar, other states such as Maharashtra, UP, Kerala, Rajasthan and Karnataka showed high numbers of deaths due to extreme weather events.

New Delhi recorded the longest cold wave duration of 18 days since 1902.

Storms

There were 8 cyclonic storms that were formed in the Indian seas. Of these, around 5 were formed in Arabian sea. This was unusual as compared to the usual one per year. The cyclones in Arabian sea was 400% more than usual.

The report also stated that heavy rains claimed 850 lives. Heat waves that was stronger in North Eastern and western parts claimed 350 lives.

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2020