Priya Ranganathan, a researcher at the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE), has published a book titled "The Dark Forest: An Illustrated Guide to the Biodiversity of the Myristica Swamps." Her fascination with these unique ecosystems began in 2019 during a research project in the Western Ghats. These swamps, associated with the Myristica or nutmeg family, are among the least studied and most endangered wetland ecosystems in India.

Key highlights from the article include:

• Priya's initial encounter with Myristica swamps in 2019, which inspired her deep interest in these ecosystems.
• Her ongoing PhD research at ATREE, focusing on scientifically assessing these swamps.
• Myristica swamps are freshwater ecosystems found only in certain parts of the Western Ghats, characterized by their reliance on monsoon rainfall and unique hydrological cycles.
• They host a rich biodiversity, including endemic species like the lion-tailed macaque, Malabar giant squirrel, and critically endangered Kottigehar dancing frog.
• These swamps offer significant ecosystem services, such as groundwater replenishment, temperature regulation, and flood prevention.
• Some swamps hold cultural significance as sacred sites in local communities.
• Despite their importance, Myristica swamps receive little attention compared to coastal wetlands like mangroves.
• Threats to these ecosystems include encroachment from agriculture, particularly areca nut plantations and paddy fields, as well as water extraction, which disrupts the growth of seedlings.
• Priya emphasizes the need for recognizing and conserving swamps as wetlands rather than classifying them solely as forests to enhance conservation strategies.
• "The Dark Forest" combines engaging illustrations with scientific insights, aimed at fostering a connection between readers and the ecosystem.
• The book has already received positive feedback, and Priya is actively seeking a publisher for wider distribution.

These Myristica swamps represent not just a unique ecological niche but also a critical aspect of the cultural and environmental landscape of the Western Ghats, warranting urgent attention and preservation measures.

Important Sentences:

• Priya Ranganathan's initial encounter with Myristica swamps in 2019 sparked her deep interest in these ecosystems.
• Myristica swamps are considered some of the least studied and most endangered wetland ecosystems in India.
• These swamps are crucial for supporting several endemic species, contributing to biodiversity in the Western Ghats.
• They provide essential ecosystem services, including groundwater replenishment and flood prevention.
• Many Myristica swamps serve as sacred sites for local communities, highlighting their cultural importance.
• Threats to Myristica swamps include agricultural encroachment and water extraction, fueled by human activities.
• Priya advocates for a change in the classification of swamps from forests to wetlands to improve conservation efforts.
• "The Dark Forest" is aimed at connecting readers to these unique ecosystems, supported by engaging illustrations.

In early spring of 2022, South Asian countries, particularly India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, faced consecutive extreme heat waves during March and April. A study conducted by researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay and Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres, provides insights into the underlying mechanisms of these heat events.

Key findings from the study reveal:

• Heatwave Drivers: The March heatwave was primarily influenced by an increase in the activity of Rossby waves, which are large-scale wind patterns in the atmosphere. These waves intensified as energy from the extratropical jet stream transferred to the subtropical jet stream.
• April Heatwave Causes: In contrast, the April heatwave resulted from very dry soil conditions and advection of heat from the north-western regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan. The dry soil conditions were exacerbated by the prior March heatwave, which increased evaporation and reduced soil moisture.
• Cyclical Impact on Heatwaves: The research indicates a troubling pattern where one heatwave can catalyze another more intense event through soil moisture depletion. When the soil lacks moisture, energy from the sun is entirely converted into increasing air temperatures, rather than being used for evaporation.
• Implications for Climate Change: Understanding the factors driving these heatwaves is crucial for enhancing forecasting and preparation strategies for extreme heat events in South Asia. With climate change altering atmospheric patterns, identifying these drivers can help mitigate future heatwave impacts.

Overall, the study emphasizes that the unique atmospheric interactions and soil conditions during the early months of 2022 played significant roles in the heatwaves, highlighting the need for improved predictive frameworks to address future climate-related challenges.

Important Sentences:

• South Asia faced back-to-back extreme heat waves in March and April 2022, affecting countries like India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
• The study published in April 2025 identifies different atmospheric processes responsible for these heat events.
• The March heatwave was driven mainly by intensified Rossby waves in high-altitude winds.
• The April heatwave resulted from dry soil conditions and heated air advection from neighboring land regions.
• Previous heatwaves create conditions that lead to more severe subsequent heat events due to soil moisture depletion.
• Enhanced understanding of these mechanisms is essential for better forecasting and preparing for future extreme heat in South Asia.
• This research underscores the relationship between climate change and atmospheric wind pattern alterations, necessitating proactive measures to mitigate severe heatwave consequences.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has projected that from June to September, India is likely to experience ‘above normal’ monsoon rainfall, potentially exceeding the historical average by 5%. This forecast indicates a second consecutive year of elevated monsoon levels, following an 8% increase in rainfall during the same period last year. This positive outlook is expected to facilitate kharif sowing, enhancing grain stocks and bolstering export reserves.

Here are key points from the article:

• The IMD anticipates 'above normal' monsoon rainfall for the June to September period in India.
• The projection indicates a potential increase of 5% over the historical average of 87 cm.
• This would mark the second consecutive year of above-average rainfall, following last year's 8% increase.
• Favorable monsoon conditions are seen as beneficial for kharif sowing, essential for grain stock improvement and export reserves.
• The government aims to procure pulses at minimum support prices to reduce import dependency, as pulses require more water for cultivation compared to cereals.
• The IMD follows a two-stage monsoon forecasting system with initial forecasts in April and updated assessments in mid-May, which factor in rainfall distribution.
• Despite some limitations in meteorological forecasting, there is confidence this year due to the absence of an El Niño phenomenon, known to correlate with weaker monsoon rains.
• The ‘Eurasian snow cover’ from January to March has also been below normal, which historically indicates a potential increase in summer monsoon rains.
• IMD uses oceanic weather models for its forecasts but notes that local weather phenomena, such as cyclonic activity, will play a more substantial role in this year's monsoon outcomes.
• While positive monsoon news is encouraging, past years of heavy rainfall have also led to flooding and landslides, prompting calls for improved infrastructure to mitigate disaster risks.
• Citing recent tragedies, such as the Wayanad disaster last year which resulted in numerous casualties and displacements, the article stresses the importance of readiness and protective measures against potential monsoon-related disasters.

In summary, while the forecasts for the upcoming monsoon season appear favorable with above-average rainfall anticipated, attention must be directed towards disaster preparedness and infrastructural improvements to safeguard against the adverse effects historically associated with heavy rains.