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During the meeting, the Prime Minister was briefed about the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) weather forecast for the next few months and on the likelihood of a normal monsoon. He was also briefed about the impact of weather on Rabi crops and the expected yield of major crops.
“The efforts underway to monitor irrigation water supply, fodder and drinking water were also reviewed. Further, Prime Minister was briefed about the preparedness of states and hospital infrastructure in terms of availability of required supplies and preparedness for emergencies,” the press release said.
“He was also updated on various efforts underway across the country to prepare for disasters related to heat and mitigation measures in place,” it added.
Delhi’s average maximum temperature for February 3rd highest in 63 years
‘Issue daily weather forecasts’
PM Ways asked IMD to issue daily weather forecasts in a manner which can be easily interpreted and disseminated. It was also discussed that TV news channels, FM radio etc. could spend a few minutes daily to explain the daily weather forecast in a manner which would allow people to take necessary precautions.
The Prime Minister said that protocols and dos and don’ts for hot weather should be prepared in accessible formats, and various other modes of publicity like jingles, films, pamphlets etc. should also be prepared.
Prime Minister stressed the need for detailed fire audits of all hospitals and that mock fire drills be done in all hospitals by firefighters. The need for a coordinated effort to deal with forest fires was also pointed out.
PM Modi has also instructed that availability of fodder and of water in reservoirs should be tracked. Food Corporation of India was asked to prepare to ensure optimal storage of grains in extreme weather conditions.
Hottest February recorded since 1901
India reported its warmest February since proper record-keeping began 1901, recording the highest average maximum temperature (29. 5 degrees C) across the country. Along with India as a whole, this February was also the warmest on record in northwest India, with the average day temperature as much as 3. 4°C above normal, while central India recorded its second warmest February with the average maximum temperature more than 2°C higher than normal, the IMD said.
‘Hotter than normal summer’
IMD has warned of more bitter days ahead with a forecast of hotter than normal summer in many parts of India during the March-May period.
In its summer season forecast, IMD said most parts of northeast, east, central and several areas of northwest India, including Delhi-NCR, are expected to see “above-normal” day temperatures. The season could see more heatwave days than last year. Normal summer temperatures are likely in south India and most parts of Maharashtra.
About the night (minimum) temperatures during the season (March-May), IMD predicted “above normal minimum temperatures” over most parts of the country except south peninsular India where normal to below normal minimum temperatures are likely.
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