Retrospection of Heatwave and Heat Index: A Case Study using ERA5 Dataset

The frequency and intensity of extreme events especially Heat Waves (HW) are growing all around the world which ultimately poses a serious threat to the health of individuals. To quantify the effects of extreme temperature, appropriate information, and the importance of HW and Heat Index (HI) are carefully discussed for different parts of the world. Varied definitions of the HW and HI formula proposed and used by different countries are carried out systematically continent-wise. Different studies highlighted the number of definitions of HW, however mostly used Steadman’s formulae for the calculation of HI that uses surface air temperature and relative humidity as climatic fields which was developed in the late 1970s. Since then, dramatic changes in climatic conditions have been observed as evident from the ERA5 datasets which need to be addressed. Likewise, the definition of HW, which is modified by the researchers as per the geographic conditions, necessary modification in Steadman’s equation also needs to be done. This study will help the researcher community to understand the importance of HW and HI and think about its modification which further helps in better adaptation and application. Furthermore, it opens the scope to develop an equation based on the present scenario keeping in mind the basics of an index as considered by Steadman.