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The Impact of El Niño on Karnataka: A Story of Five Months of Drought

El Niño & More: Five Months of Drought in Karnataka

Published on: April 11, 2024

The phenomenon known as El Niño, coupled with other climatic factors, has led to a prolonged dry spell across Karnataka, marking five months without a drop of rain. This extreme weather condition has not only affected the urban areas but also the lush rainforests of the Western Ghats, including Agumbe, known for its rich biodiversity.

The Harsh Reality of a Changing Climate

Local weathermen, experts, and the residents of Karnataka have been witnessing an exceptionally harsh summer for the past two years. The rainfall pattern, which usually offers some respite by March, has failed to deliver, with the state recording a 94% deficit in rainfall from March 1 till date. This has severe implications for the flora and fauna of the region, with studies being conducted on the nesting and breeding patterns of species like King Cobras and other amphibians.

The Impact on Biodiversity and Human Life

The rising temperatures, reaching 34-35 degrees Celsius in areas of the Western Ghats, have not only led to an increase in zoonotic diseases but also impacted water availability and the salinity levels in estuaries. The dry conditions have pushed the state to issue advisories, urging people to stay hydrated and avoid going out during peak sun hours. The heatwave warning issued for several districts underlines the severity of the situation.

Urbanization: A Contributing Factor

According to Prof. TV Ramachandra from the Centre for Ecological Sciences at IISc, the increase in urbanization and decrease in green cover are significant factors affecting the rainfall pattern in the region. A study titled 'Insights of Forest Dynamics for the Regional Ecological Fragility Assessment' highlights the change in rain patterns due to forest fragmentation and increased urbanization.

The Silver Lining: Light Rain Predictions

Despite the grim situation, there's a glimmer of hope with predictions of light rainfall in certain areas between April 10 and 14. However, this may not be enough to mitigate the current deficit and the ongoing challenges faced by the state.

Conclusion

The situation in Karnataka is a stark reminder of the challenges posed by climate change and the need for immediate action to mitigate its effects. The prolonged dry spell exacerbated by El Niño and human activities calls for a concerted effort to preserve our environment and prepare for an uncertain future.

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