Heatwave crisis in Chhattisgarh: mass bat deaths reported in Korba
Chhattisgarh heatwave turns fatal for wildlife
Korba/Raipur | Correspondent: Amidst the extreme heat waves going on in the districts of Chhattisgarh, Korba reported the death of more than 150 bats.
Korba is currently experiencing 42 degrees and above. Bats during such intense heat, especially above 42 degrees, suffer severe heatstroke and fatal dehydration.
The bats had taken shelter in the trees near the Naukonia pond in Pali Nagar panchayat.
According to experts, bats generally need dense, cool trees for shelter so they can keep their body temperature under control. Bats live for around 15-20 years and usually give birth to only one baby each year.
When mass death of bats takes place due to prolonged heatwaves, this could lead to affect in the seed dispersal and pollination. This may disturb the natural balance of the environment.
However, the extreme heat wave is being experienced across the state.
Currently, the scorching sun and hot winds are making daily life extremely difficult for people. Stepping outside has become exhausting and unsafe for many people due to strong heatwave conditions.
The Meteorological Centre has warned that there is no immediate relief expected for the next five days in the plains of North and Central Chhattisgarh. Dry north-westerly winds continue to heat the region, making the weather feel like a furnace.
According to weather experts, a cyclonic system over South Bihar and nearby areas has made the atmosphere dry. Because of this, the chances of pre-monsoon rainfall are very low for now.
The Meteorological Department has issued a severe heatwave warning (Orange and Yellow alerts) for 18 major districts across the state, including the Raipur, Bilaspur, and Durg divisions. The administration has issued strict instructions to the general public to avoid venturing outdoors unnecessarily between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM and to ensure they stay hydrated.
The intensity of the heat can be gauged from the fact that on Saturday, Rajnandgaon emerged as the hottest region in the state with a temperature of 46 degrees Celsius, while the mercury soared to 44.3 degrees in the capital, Raipur, and reached 44.5 degrees in Bilaspur.
What is an Orange Alert?
An Orange Alert from the Meteorological Department is a serious warning that people should be prepared for extreme heat. It means temperatures are much higher than normal, and such conditions are likely to continue for two to four days.
The heat can become dangerous for health, increasing the risk of problems like heatstroke and dehydration, especially for children, the elderly, and people with existing illnesses. During this time, people are advised to avoid going out between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM unless necessary, while government departments are kept on alert to manage emergencies. In simple terms, an Orange Alert means the weather has become hazardous, and extra care is needed.
