India is currently facing a major health issue in the field of extreme heat. The situation in detail:
* **Indian Extreme Heat and Public Health Risks *(April 2021)
🔥 Record Heat **
Some parts of India are experiencing >49°C (120 degrees fahrenheit) Spring temperatures — far above normal seasonal highs.
The heatwaves have hit, squarely in front of where they are supposed to land at this time.
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· Health impact
- Heatstroke, dehydration and cardiovascular health issues** increasingly common among outdoor workers; kids and the elderly; those with existing conditions
Hospitals have seen a surge in emergency visits for heat-related illness.
,Infrastructure Strain
Power outages ** from increased air conditioning and cooling demand;
Includes * water stress in a number of states, exacerbating existing health risks.
🧪 Climate Change Connection
…the phenomenon has been attributed to climate change by scientists, with higher and/or more frequent occurrence heat waves.
Sometimes Wet-bulb temperatures (a proxy for heat and humidity) have been mentioned entering those survivability threshold in coastal or river basin countries.
🧠Government and Community Responses
- Activating heat action plans (alert systems for the detection and combating of a dangerous temperature event with detailed plans on cooling centers etc.) in some states.
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has updated its guidelines to focus on the specific urban and rural vulnerabilities.
🧊 You Can Do
- Stay hydrated and do not go out during the day time when the Sun is at peak.
Lifestyle-** Wear light breathable clothing and carry Umbrellas or hats if out.
