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UPSC » Daily News Analysis ‘Record-Breaking Heatwave in Antarctica ‘: 9 August

Daily News Analysis ‘Record-Breaking Heatwave in Antarctica ‘: 9 August

Antarctica is experiencing a record-breaking heatwave for the second time in two years, with ground temperatures averaging 10 degrees Celsius above normal since mid-July, and some days seeing increases of up to 28 degrees.

Table of Content

About the Heatwave in Antarctica:

    • Antarctica is experiencing a heatwave, with temperatures 10 to 28 degrees Celsius above average. In East Antarctica, temperatures have risen to minus 25 to minus 30 degrees Celsius, significantly higher than usual. 
  • Causes of the Heatwave:
  • Weak Polar Vortex: A weakened polar vortex allows warmer air to enter Antarctica, breaking the usual cold air containment.
  • Decline in Antarctic Sea Ice: Reduced sea ice, at its second-lowest June level, diminishes its cooling effect and thermal barrier, leading to higher temperatures.
  • Global Warming: Antarctica is warming at 0.22 to 0.32°C per decade, almost double the global average, due to accelerated global warming.

About Heatwave:

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) defines a heatwave based on temperature criteria and deviations from normal temperature:

  • Plain Areas: A heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature reaches at least 40°C .
      • If the normal maximum temperature of a location is less than or equal to 40°C, a departure from normal is 5°C to 6°C for it to be called a heatwave. If the departure from normal is more than 7°C, it is called a severe heatwave.
  • Hilly Areas: A heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature reaches at least 30°C.
      • In these regions, a departure from normal is 4.5°C to 6.4°C for it to be termed a heatwave. If the departure from normal is 6.5°C or more, it is called a severe heatwave.
  • For All Areas: An absolute maximum temperature of 45°C or more is considered a heatwave condition, regardless of the normal maximum temperature of the location.

Why in News?

Antarctica is experiencing a record-breaking heatwave for the second time in two years, with ground temperatures averaging 10 degrees Celsius above normal since mid-July, and some days seeing increases of up to 28 degrees.Â