Heat waves over Andhra Pradesh : A case study of summer 2003

Abstract

Temperature data of pre-monsoon months for major stations in Andhra Pradesh for long period (1901-2002) have been analysed to identify the variations in maximum temperature. Analysis of short period temperature data (1986-2002) has shown increase in the frequency of severe heat waves and also duration of heat wave spells during the last decade. Since the severe heat waves during May-June 2003 over Andhra Pradesh have claimed many lives, a detailed study of all meteorological parameters associated with such heat waves has been made and the results are discussed. Human comfort indices - Heat Index (HI),  Thom’s Discomfort Index &  Webbs’  Comfort Index  computed in respect of coastal stations have clearly reflected the severity of heat waves.