- A recent study highlights that the Indian Ocean has warmed by 1.2°C and predicts a temperature rise of 1.7°C to 3.8°C from 2020 to 2100.
- The study links increased marine heatwaves to a tenfold rise in rapid cyclone formations, escalating from an average of 20 days per year to 220–250 days, potentially leading the tropical Indian Ocean towards a “near-permanent heatwave state.” It can accelerate coral bleaching and adversely impact the fisheries sector.
| Marine HeatwavesMarine heatwaves (MHWs) are extended periods of unusually high ocean temperatures that can last for months or weeks. They can occur in different parts of the ocean and can warm the ocean to depths of hundreds of meters. MHWs are defined by their intensity and duration. |
On the mainland, India could see more frequent severe cyclones and a more erratic monsoon pattern, characterized by prolonged droughts interspersed with intense rainfall and resulting floods.
Dig Deeper: Read about Heatwaves in India and criteria to declare heatwave
