India Battles Brutal Heatwave: Temperatures Soar, Health Risks Rise 

India Battles Brutal Heatwave: Temperatures Soar, Health Risks Rise

Many parts of India are grappling with a severe heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 48 degrees Celsius (118 degrees Fahrenheit) in 17 locations on Monday. This scorching heat is not only causing discomfort but also posing significant health risks and disrupting livelihoods across the country.

Rajasthan Records Highest Temperature

Phalodi in Rajasthan emerged as the hottest place in India, recording a scorching 49.4 degrees Celsius. Several other locations in the desert state, including at least eight cities, witnessed temperatures exceeding a staggering 48 degrees Celsius.

Heatwave Grips North-Western and Central India

The relentless heatwave is severely impacting large swathes of northwestern and central India. Cities like Sirsa in Haryana (48.4°C), Mungeshpur in Delhi (48.8°C), Bathinda in Punjab (48.4°C), Jhansi in Uttar Pradesh (48.1°C), and Niwari in Madhya Pradesh (48.7°C) all experienced dangerously high temperatures on Monday.

National Capital Under Red Alert

The scorching heat has intensified in the national capital, New Delhi, with parts of the city recording maximum temperatures exceeding 48 degrees Celsius. The weather office has issued a red alert, which will remain in effect for the next three days, urging residents to take precautions against the extreme heat.

Heatwave Takes Toll on Infrastructure and Water Resources

The intense heatwave is putting immense strain on India’s infrastructure. Power grids are struggling to keep up with the surge in demand for electricity for cooling purposes. Furthermore, water shortages are worsening in several parts of the country. The Central Water Commission reported that water storage in major reservoirs has dwindled to just 24% of their capacity, exacerbating water scarcity and impacting hydropower generation.

Climate Change Exacerbates Heatwaves

Experts warn that climate change is a significant factor behind the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves. According to World Weather Attribution, a group of leading climate scientists, similar heatwaves that were previously expected to occur only once every 30 years are now 45 times more likely due to climate change.

Heatstroke and Exhaustion Pose Health Risks

The scorching temperatures pose a serious health threat, particularly for vulnerable populations such as outdoor workers, the elderly, and children. These groups are at a higher risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

World Health Organization Highlights Heatwave Deaths

The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the dangers of heatwaves, stating that over 166,000 people died from heat-related illnesses between 1998 and 2017.

Taking Precautions During the Heatwave

Here are some essential precautions to take during a heatwave:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and cooling beverages.
• Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
• Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
• Limit exposure to direct sunlight.
• Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature.
• Seek air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.
• Check on elderly neighbors and relatives who may be more susceptible to the heat.

By following these precautions and staying informed about weather advisories, individuals can stay safe during this scorching heatwave.

#HeatwaveInIndia #HeatStress #ClimateChange, web feed news