The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Severe Heat Warning for Telangana from March 13 to 18, with temperatures expected to soar as high as 43°C in some regions. This extreme heatwave could pose serious health risks, disrupt daily activities, and affect vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and outdoor workers.
To help you stay safe and prepared, we have compiled an easy-to-understand, authoritative guide with expert-backed tips, official resources, and actionable advice.
Severe Heat Warning in Telangana
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Heatwave Duration | March 13 – 18, 2025 |
| Expected Temperature | 39°C to 43°C |
| Most Affected Areas | Adilabad, Mancherial, Karimnagar, Warangal, Khammam, Nizamabad |
| Hyderabad Temperature | 39°C to 41°C |
| Government Advisory | Schools to operate on half-day schedules from March 15 |
| Health Risks | Dehydration, heatstroke, exhaustion |
| Precautions | Stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure, wear loose clothing |
The upcoming heatwave in Telangana (March 13-18) will bring extreme temperatures, posing health risks. By following simple safety measures like staying hydrated, avoiding peak sun exposure, and recognizing heat-related illnesses, you can protect yourself and your family.
Understanding the Telangana Heatwave
What is a Heatwave?
A heatwave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, often accompanied by humidity, making it difficult for the body to cool itself. The IMD defines a heatwave as a temperature rise 5°C – 6°C above normal or above 40°C in plains.
Why is Telangana Experiencing This?
Heatwaves are common in pre-monsoon months (March-May) due to:
- High solar radiation
- Dry air and lack of cloud cover
- Urban Heat Island Effect (UHI)
- Climate change impacts
Regions Most Affected
According to IMD forecasts, the following districts will experience the highest temperatures:
- Northern & Eastern Telangana: Adilabad, Mancherial, Karimnagar, Warangal, Khammam, and Nizamabad (40-43°C)
- Hyderabad & Surrounding Areas: Medak, Vikarabad, and Rangareddy (39-41°C)
How to Stay Safe During a Heatwave
1. Stay Hydrated
- Drink 2-3 liters of water daily.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.
- Consume ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) if feeling dizzy or weak.
- Eat watery fruits like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges.
2. Avoid Direct Sun Exposure
- Stay indoors from 12 PM – 3 PM (peak heat hours).
- Wear light, loose cotton clothes.
- Use an umbrella or hat when stepping outside.
- Apply sunscreen (SPF 30+).
3. Keep Your Home Cool
- Close curtains during the day.
- Use fans & air conditioning.
- Avoid using heat-generating appliances like ovens and stoves.
- Place bowls of water in rooms to add moisture to dry air.
4. Recognize Heat-Related Illnesses
| Condition | Symptoms | What to Do |
| Heat Cramps | Muscle pain, sweating | Drink water, rest in a cool place |
| Heat Exhaustion | Heavy sweating, nausea, dizziness | Move to shade, drink electrolytes |
| Heatstroke (Emergency!) | No sweating, confusion, fainting | Call for medical help immediately |
5. Special Precautions for Vulnerable Groups
- Children & Elderly: Provide extra fluids, avoid direct heat.
- Outdoor Workers: Take frequent breaks, use cooling towels.
- Pregnant Women: Avoid overheating, wear loose clothing.
- Pets: Ensure shaded areas and plenty of water.
6. Community-Level Actions
- Local authorities should set up cooling shelters in high-risk areas.
- Employers should allow flexible work hours to avoid midday heat exposure.
- Encourage neighborhood check-ins for elderly and vulnerable individuals.
Government Actions & Guidelines
1. School Timings Adjusted
- Telangana schools will operate half-day schedules (8 AM – 12:30 PM) from March 15.
2. Public Health Advisory
- The Telangana Health Department has issued guidelines for hospitals to prepare for heat-related cases.
3. Power & Water Supply Management
- Authorities are ensuring adequate electricity and water supply in urban and rural areas.
4. Emergency Services
- Heatwave emergency helpline: 108 for medical assistance.
- Local police and municipal bodies are monitoring vulnerable populations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What should I do if I feel dizzy or dehydrated?
Drink cool water or ORS, move to a cool area, and rest. If symptoms persist, seek medical help.
Q2: How can I keep my pets safe?
Provide plenty of water, keep them indoors or in shade, and avoid walking them on hot surfaces.
Q3: Can extreme heat cause serious health problems?
Yes. Heatstroke can be fatal if untreated. Watch for symptoms like confusion, fainting, and lack of sweat.
Q4: Is it safe to exercise outdoors during a heatwave?
Avoid strenuous outdoor activities between 10 AM – 4 PM. Opt for early morning or late evening workouts.
Q5: Will Telangana receive rainfall soon?
Current forecasts suggest dry conditions until late March, but IMD updates can change.
