INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday chaired a high-level meeting today to review the preparedness for hot weather in upcoming
summer at his residence.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 Modi 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
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 1901India 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
'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
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
below normal minimum temperatures are likely.
