Uttarakhand's cool nights warming up

Uttarakhand's reputation as a cool mountain retreat faces a significant challenge as night-time temperatures are predicted to rise sharply over the next quarter-century. An assessment by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) indicates that between 2025 and 2050, several districts will experience a substantial increase in unusually warm nights, disrupting the region's climate. Chamoli is projected to be the hardest hit, with an average of 52 warm nights annually, a stark contrast to historical data. Other districts like Tehri Garhwal and Champawat are also expected to see a notable rise in warm nights. This warming trend is occurring alongside a documented increase in summer humidity, with relative humidity rising up to 16% between 2012 and 2022. In response to these escalating climate risks, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has directed states to prepare comprehensive heat action plans to enhance early warning systems and public health preparedness. Necessary directions are being issued to districts for timely preparation and review of these critical plans.