Assam heatwave crisis: sweltering temperature grips the region

Due to rise in temperature in the Northeast region which is not normal, people of Assam has been facing difficulties like health issues. The region’s temperature has risen to 40 degree Celsius in the month of September. Usually, temperature during the month gets lower but the region has been witnessing maximum degree Celsius of heatwave.

Rahul Mahanta, an associate professor specialising in climate science explained the reason behind the change in climate, he said, “Usually, air circulation over the northeastern region keeps the region cool. This circulation emerging from the Bay of Bengal hits the region with low velocity winds that provide the much-needed moisture, causing short spells of showers throughout the month of September.”

“This year, we noticed that the circulation is completely absent and in its place, a high-pressure system prevails over Assam and adjoining states. Another crucial factor in the region has been soil moisture which generally has a cooling effect during the night. However, this year, we have witnessed an absence of soil moisture as well which has led to the high night-time temperatures. Based on these observations on the air circulation above the region, one can see the presence of a heat-dome effect.”

The weakening monsoon circulation, poor soil moisture, heavy exposure to sunlight, heavy deforestation and expanding industrial activity are the main factors to the recent climate change in the northeast region.