In 2020, human deaths due to cold waves were 76 times more than those due to heat waves, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Scientists at IMD have forecast that January and February this year will witness many chillier days, mainly because of La Nina that has been emerging in the Pacific Ocean. La Nina conditions are considered favourable for the occurrence of cold waves over India, Pakistan and Nepal.The number of cold wave days have been consistently on the rise since 2017. In 2018, the country witnessed 63 days of cold waves, which increased 1.5 times to 103 in 2019. According to the Ministry of Statistics, as many as 152 deaths were recorded due to cold waves in 2020, in comparison to just two deaths as a result of heat waves.
Northern India is reeling under a spell of cold wave as per media reports. Delhi reported minimum temperatures dropping down to as low as 70 Celsius and there are reports of deaths due to cold. It is reported that 106 deaths have been recorded in Delhi alone due to cold in the month of January, although officials have denied it.
In Nagaland, the temperature has been dropping down to the single digit this season. There are reports coming in from various parts of the state of snowfall and frost. With climate change happening right before our eyes, and the temperature falling down to as low as 80Celsius in Mokokchung by nighttime, and with the pandemic showing no signs of subsiding, extra precautions are advisable for the citizens. As prescribed by the IMD, some of the advises recommended would include staying indoors as much as possible without exposing to the chill outdoors. Check that you have adequate warm clothing. Check on any neighbours who live alone, especially the elderly. Monitor all media outlets for weather and emergency procedure information. Maintain proper ventilation when using kerosene, heater or coal oven, to avoid toxic fumes. Take regular hot drinks to maintain body heat to fight the cold. Wearing woolen hats is recommended as it helps to prevent heat loss. And avoid drinking alcohol as it will reduce your body temperature.
With the COVID-19 pandemic still raging and newer variants being detected, catching cold is an uneasy feeling at this time. Further, it would also be advisable for those who are engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry to take precautionary measures to protect their crops and livestock in this cold wave.