For the first time this season, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a 'Warm Night' (night-time heat wave) alert for several districts in Madhya Pradesh. While the state is already grappling with daytime temperatures crossing 43°C, the lack of cooling at night has become a new cause for concern.

1. What is a "Warm Night" Alert?

A 'Warm Night' is officially declared by the IMD when the minimum (night-time) temperature remains significantly higher than the seasonal average.

• The Criteria: A warm night is identified when the minimum temperature departure is between $4.5^\circ\text{C}$ to $6.4^\circ\text{C}$ above normal.

• The Danger: Normally, the human body uses the cooler night hours to recover from daytime heat. When nights remain hot, the heat stress becomes continuous, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion and stroke.

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2. Affected Regions in MP

The alert has been specifically issued for nearly 9 districts, including:

• Bhopal

• Chhindwara, Raisen, Sehore

• Narmadapuram, Seoni, Balaghat, and Mandla

While these areas face "Warm Nights," other districts like Gwalior, Khajuraho, and Datia are recording extreme daytime highs, with Khajuraho recently peaking at $43.4^\circ\text{C}$.

3. Why is this happening?

According to meteorologists, a combination of factors is trapping heat over Central India:

• Anti-cyclonic Circulation: High-pressure systems are forcing hot air downward, preventing it from escaping into the atmosphere.

• Dry Westerly Winds: Hot, dry winds from the desert regions of Rajasthan are blowing into MP.

• Lack of Cloud Cover: Clear skies allow maximum solar radiation during the day and prevent the earth from cooling down quickly at night.

4. Health Advisory

With the "Warm Night" alert in place, health experts suggest:

• Staying hydrated even if you don't feel thirsty.

• Using fans or coolers to maintain air circulation during late hours.

• Avoiding heavy meals late at night as they can increase body temperature during digestion.

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