IMD’s dissemination system employs social media, mobile apps, and automated alerts to ensure timely warnings reach disaster management authorities and vulnerable populations. Enhanced early warning systems have reduced casualties in rural and coastal regions during severe weather events.

Union Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh, shared updates on critical climate phenomena, early warning systems, and advancements in weather radar networks in a series of written replies during the Lok Sabha session today.

Leveraging Technology for Safety and Mitigation

The minister highlighted the leveraging of technology for safety and mitigation. He said that the IMD’s dissemination system employs social media, mobile apps, and automated alerts to ensure timely warnings reach disaster management authorities and vulnerable populations. Enhanced early warning systems have reduced casualties in rural and coastal regions during severe weather events.

The government’s comprehensive approach underscores its commitment to weather resilience, climate science, and safeguarding citizens from the growing threats of climate change.

Impact of El Niño and La Niña on Indian Monsoons

The Minister provided insights into the effects of El Niño and La Niña on India’s monsoons. Data since 1950 indicates that 16 El Niño years were recorded, of which 7 saw below-normal rainfall during the monsoon season. Notably, September rainfall is particularly sensitive to El Niño events, showing a stronger inverse relationship.

Conversely, La Niña, characterized by cooler Pacific Ocean temperatures, generally brings above-normal rainfall during the monsoon season, except in extreme north and northeastern India, which may experience below-normal precipitation. The winter season during La Niña years also tends to record lower temperatures.

Early Warning Systems for Natural Disasters

Highlighting India’s proactive measures to mitigate climate change impacts, Dr. Singh showcased the advancements in early warning systems and climate research. A state-of-the-art Earth System Model (ESM), developed by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, is generating regional climate projections. The National Climate Change Assessment Report, now publicly accessible, details human-induced changes affecting the Indian subcontinent, including a 0.7°C rise in surface air temperatures (1901–2018) and a 1°C increase in tropical Indian Ocean temperatures (1951–2015).

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has developed a Climate Hazards and Vulnerability Atlas for 13 critical meteorological events, aiding disaster preparedness. To further bolster readiness, the Union Cabinet has launched Mission Mausam, a INR 2,000 crore initiative to improve weather forecasting, early warning systems, and community resilience.

Expansion of Doppler Weather Radar Network

Mission Mausam also includes plans to expand the Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) network, with 87 additional radars to be installed by 2026. Currently, 39 radars provide coverage across India, with new installations enhancing localized forecasts and accuracy. These radars feed data into advanced numerical weather prediction models, improving early warnings for extreme weather events.