The vibrant celebration known as Holi, which symbolizes the conquest of virtue over malevolence, is scheduled for March 25th. This year, there’s an apprehension regarding a potential surge in temperatures during the festivities.

According to a study conducted by Climate Central, an independent consortium of scholars and communicators based in the United States, there’s a forecast of unprecedented heat in March and April compared to the 1970s. It suggests that the mercury could rise to 40 degrees Celsius during the Holi festivities.

Nationwide Rise in Temperature During March-April: The analysis, titled ‘Heat Trends for Holi,’ has divulged a general escalation in temperatures nationwide throughout March and April. The northern and western regions are experiencing the most rapid warming during March. Notably, Jammu and Kashmir have witnessed the most significant increase in March temperatures since 1970, with the mercury climbing by 2.8 degrees Celsius. In April, the rise in temperature is more evenly distributed, with Mizoram observing a 1.9 degrees Celsius increase.

Potential for Extreme Heat During Holi: Elevated temperatures continue to pose a significant public health risk globally. The research has concentrated on the likelihood of temperatures surpassing 40 degrees Celsius.

During the 1970s, temperatures rarely exceeded 40 degrees Celsius in India, with the exception of Maharashtra, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh. However, this year presents a high likelihood of temperatures surpassing 40 degrees Celsius in nine states, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh, in addition to the aforementioned three states.

By comparing the disparity in warming rates between March and April, the researchers have determined that Maharashtra has a 14 percent probability of encountering extreme heat.