Rayalaseema To Witness High Temperatures in May Due to El Niño
Temperatures may touch 47°C in May; heat stress and health risks rise
Anantapur: The adverse impact of El Niño is expected to push temperatures unusually high across the Rayalaseema region during May. Significantly, mercury levels have already crossed 45 degrees Celsius in April. Predictions are that they may go up by two more degrees in May and touch 47 degrees Celsius. Temperatures could touch even 49 degrees along BT roads in the heart of cities and towns, though these are not calculated officially, a senior weather scientist said. The heat wave has led to a man dying of sunstroke in Anantapur. Several others have been admitted to hospitals as inpatients. Among them is Sunkamma, a housemaid, who is undergoing treatment for past three days at the Housing Board in Anantapur. Weather scientist Narayana Swamy explained that El Niño—characterized by warming of surface waters in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean—has a direct influence on climatic patterns over India, often resulting in hotter and drier conditions, particularly in Rayalaseema. He said compared to normal years, this season is expected to record a noticeable increase of 2–3°C above average in the coming days. Data from Rekulakunta Weather Station shows a rising trend in daytime temperatures through April, signalling an early onset of intense summer conditions. Night temperatures too are expected to remain higher than usual, offering little relief. Narayana Swamy cautioned that prolonged heat spells could impact agriculture, especially crops sensitive to heat stress.
They will cause dehydration and heat-related illnesses among the public. He advised residents to avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and follow heat safety guidelines.
Middle classes, who have depended on fans and water coolers, are now being forced to opt for air-conditioners. Sarojamma, 84, a pensioner, said she never thought she would purchase an AC. But extreme temperatures have forced her to do so now.
Rahamthulla, an AC technician, told Deccan Chronicle that this is the first time many people are installing ACs, unable to bear abnormal temperatures.
