Coastal Karnataka records highest temperature in history; Sullia hits 40.1°C!

NT Correspondent

Mangaluru: The temperature in coastal Karnataka has surged to alarming levels, with the highest ever recorded in the state being noted in Sulya at 40.1°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heatwave warnings, indicating potential adverse impacts on both public life and agriculture. Recent reports have highlighted the severity of the heat this year, indicating that the scorching sun may persist throughout the season.

As the temperature continues to rise, 15 states across the country are experiencing extreme heat. The IMD warns that the heatwave will have serious consequences for crops, people, and livestock. In coastal Karnataka, residents are already feeling the brunt of the sweltering heat. In Dakshina Kannada district, both high temperatures and humidity are contributing to an uncomfortable atmosphere. According to the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC), Sulya recorded the highest temperature of 40.1°C between February 28 and March 1 at 8:30 AM.

Additionally, the town of Kokkada in Belthangady registered a maximum temperature of 40.4°C on Thursday. The heatwave has also impacted various locations in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. Notable temperatures include 39.1°C in Panemangalore (Bantwal), 39.5°C in Uppinangady, and 39°C in Kadaba. Similarly, in Udupi district, Savantavada (Karwar) recorded 39.9°C, Mavinakurve (Honnavar) 39.5°C, and Ghadasai (Karwar) 39.8°C.

The KSNDMC has documented temperatures exceeding 39°C in four locations in Dakshina Kannada and three in Udupi. However, maximum temperatures statewide remain close to normal, varying between -1.5°C and +1.5°C. The IMD had issued a heatwave warning for coastal Karnataka on March 1 and 2, predicting that warm and humid conditions will continue on March 3. The relative humidity is expected to range from 40% to 50%, coupled with maximum temperatures between 37°C and 38°C, resulting in perceived temperature levels between 40°C and 50°C. The intense heat is significantly raising the discomfort levels among residents.

The IMD mentions that there will be no significant changes in maximum and minimum temperatures across southern interior regions for the next five days. In northern interior Karnataka, temperatures are expected to remain stable for the next three days. Notably, February 2025 has been identified as one of the hottest months since 1901.