HEAT
INDEX - ENVIRONMENT
News: Explained | What is heat index and
why is it important to measure?
What's
in the news?
●
The Union
Ministry of Earth Sciences informed that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has introduced the Heat Index
on an experimental basis.
Heat
Index:
●
It provides information about the impact
of humidity on the high temperatures and thus provides a feel-like temperature
for human beings which can be used as an indication for human discomfort.
●
The Heat Index is implemented on an
experimental basis only across the entire country including the State of Andhra
Pradesh.
How
is it calculated?
●
At present, heat index is derived using
the heat index equation similar to what is used by National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA), USA.
●
Formula considers factors like
temperature, humidity, wind, extra radiation, and barometric pressure to
determine the apparent temperature or heat index.
●
The dew point, which signifies the
temperature at which air becomes saturated with moisture and condensation
occurs, is a crucial component in this formula, with a dew point of 14°C.
Importance:
●
Understanding human comfort and health.
●
Impact of humidity on cooling.
●
Adaptation to climate change.