Heat waves in India are becoming an increasing concern, with their frequency, intensity, and geographical spread all rising due to climate change. These extreme heat events typically occur during the pre-monsoon and summer months, especially from April to June, when temperatures in some regions soar to life-threatening levels.
India has witnessed several deadly heat waves in recent decades. For instance, in 1998, a severe heat wave in Orissa (now Odisha) claimed nearly 1,300 lives, while the 2015 heat wave killed over 2,500 people across the country. In 2024, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a warning of a heat wave lasting longer than usual, predicting temperatures of up to 50°C in parts of the country. The rising frequency of such events is causing significant public health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly, children, and those working outdoors.
The intensity of heat waves is a direct consequence of rising global temperatures due to human-induced climate change. In particular, regions like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and parts of central India are among the hardest-hit. The lack of adequate infrastructure and the absence of widespread cooling systems exacerbate the impact, making urban areas particularly dangerous during extreme heat events.
Interactive Element:
- Heat Wave Tracker: See how heat waves in India have increased over the last 50 years with an interactive heat map.
- Poll: How do you think local governments can better prepare cities for heat waves?
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