There is likely to be a reduction in maximum temperatures and abatement of heat wave conditions from May 29 onwards

Heat wave to severe heat wave conditions are likely to continue over central and northwest India during next two to three days, India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned on Wednesday.

Large parts of the country recorded a prolonged hot spell for a week now, further accentuated by warm nights in many places.

Simon Stiell, executive secretary, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change said that extreme heat over India is a result of worsening climate change, largely driven by the world burning colossal amounts of coal, oil and gas. He also said that solar and other renewable energy sources helped in meeting day-time peaks, and India’s strong steps to ramp up solar power have been a benefit.

“Large parts of India are already experiencing a punishing summer of extreme heat, with severe human and economic impacts, and the main culprit is worsening climate change, largely driven by the world burning colossal amounts of coal, oil and gas. These are testing times for those living in homes without cooling or working long hours outdoors. These extremes drive home the importance of measures to adapt to climate impacts, globally,” Stiell said.

India’s large renewable energy capacity has helped, he said. “India has also seen record breaking peak electricity demand in recent days. Solar and other renewable energy sources have helped in meeting day-time peaks, and India’s strong steps to ramp up solar power have been a benefit, ” he added.

“The heat extremes over India are a reminder of the potential of homegrown clean energy and energy efficiency measures which could help provide cooling to the most vulnerable, and more secure and affordable electricity to help power homes, businesses, vital health services and electric transport,” Stiell said. He also added that this heat spell is doubly challenging, “coming amid the current fossil fuel cost crisis – with spiraling prices for imported fossil fuels around the world” due to the West Asia conflict.