Nepal Faces Severe Heatwave Alert as Temperatures Soar Across Terai Regions

Kathmandu. Most parts of the country have experienced a significant rise in temperatures over the past few days, leading to extreme heat. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecasted the possibility of heatwaves (loo) in the Terai districts.

According to data released by the department on Monday afternoon, temperatures reached 41 degrees Celsius in Kapilvastu and 39 degrees Celsius in Banke. The department stated that days have become hot in the Terai regions, valleys, and gorges of Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, and Sudurpashchim provinces, with a high probability of heatwaves in the western Terai areas of Sudurpashchim and Lumbini provinces. The department has requested the public to stay updated with the latest information and adopt necessary precautions.

Meteorologist Sanjeev Adhikari of the department informed that the extreme heat conditions will persist, especially in the Terai districts, until Wednesday. "From today until Wednesday, there is a possibility of heatwaves, particularly in the Terai, valleys, and gorge areas," he said. "However, since clouds have been observed in Koshi Province, the possibility of a heatwave there is currently low. The risk is higher in the western part of Lumbini Province, other Terai districts of Sudurpashchim including Dhangadhi, and places like Nepalgunj."

Noting that the temperature in Dipayal, Sudurpashchim, reached about 40 degrees Celsius today, he described this as abnormal for the region. Rajendra Sharma, a senior hydrologist at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, urged for timely preparation and increased awareness, as weather events like heatwaves are expected to increase due to climate change. "We have drafted a procedure to mitigate the impact of heatwaves and sent it to the relevant inter-governmental agencies for implementation; we are also holding necessary discussions for effective execution," he said.

"Measures such as maintaining a cool environment, ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water, and providing special care for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and the sick must be adopted," he added. "Similarly, it is equally important to make necessary precautionary arrangements in hospitals, schools, and public places."

What are the health impacts?

Public health expert Dr. Samir Adhikari stated that heatwaves can cause problems such as rapid heart rate, respiratory issues, low blood pressure, severe headaches, burning eyes, dizziness, and fainting. "Heatwaves can also have long-term effects and cause problems in the brain and circulatory system," he said. "Children and the elderly are the most vulnerable. One should drink plenty of water, stay in cool, shaded areas, and avoid alcohol and smoking."

The Ministry of Health and Population has stated that symptoms such as body temperature exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and dry, red, and hot skin may also occur. Pediatrician Dr. Ramhari Chapagain suggested high vigilance as children's health can be affected during heatwaves or periods of extreme heat.

A study by the World Health Organization on "Public perception of heatwave trends and associated health risks in Nepal" concluded that heat-related problems have increased due to climate change. According to the study, the trend of rising temperatures is continuously increasing due to climate change, rapid urbanization, and air pollution, which is negatively affecting human health and other sectors.

Analyzing data from 33 weather stations across the country from 1987 to 2016, the World Health Organization noted that the number of hot days is increasing. There have been changes in the pattern of hot nights and rainfall during the pre-monsoon and monsoon periods, especially in the southern part of the country. The study points out the need to increase public awareness, expand health protection measures, and strengthen adaptation strategies at the local level to cope with rising temperatures.

Impact on agriculture and risk of reduced production

It is reported that extreme temperature rise can also affect the agriculture and livestock sectors. According to agricultural expert Dilliram Sharma, extreme heat and heatwaves can have a serious impact on agricultural production. He stated that heatwaves can cause crops to dry up, flowers to fall, and fruits not to set properly, which could lead to financial losses for farmers.

"If a heatwave occurs when vegetables are flowering or fruiting, growth stops, and production is poor," he said. "In some places, corn has started to grain, but since the grains may not fill properly, production may decrease."

He suggested that farming inside plastic tunnels (polyhouses) could help reduce risks. Stakeholders say that since the agriculture and livestock sectors are directly affected by climate change, long-term planning is necessary to mitigate such risks. Experts have suggested improving irrigation management, providing proper shade and water, paying attention to animal health, and adopting climate-resilient agricultural practices during the hot season.

How to stay safe?

The authority has suggested avoiding going outdoors during the day as much as possible, drinking plenty of water and fruit juice, and consuming oral rehydration salts (Jeevan Jal) if sweating excessively. If one must go out, it is advised to cover the head, use an umbrella, bathe with cool water, and work in the fields only in the morning or evening.

Additionally, the Ministry of Health and Population has urged people not to consume alcohol, to limit the use of caffeinated beverages (tea, coffee, soda), and to avoid sugary drinks.

What is a heatwave (Loo)?

According to the preparedness, pre-action, and rapid response plan for extreme heat or heatwaves, the weather condition caused by extreme heat is called a heatwave (Loo). It is mentioned as a 'heatwave' in Nepal's Federal and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act.

According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, hot days are identified based on temperature from Chaitra to Bhadra. A day is called a hot day if the maximum temperature exceeds 90 percent of the last 30 years' average. The procedure states, "When hot days persist for three or more consecutive days, it is classified as a mild heatwave; if there are many hot days, it is a moderate heatwave; and if there are extreme hot days, it is classified as an extreme heatwave."