Northern India is enduring a severe heat wave, with temperatures reaching unprecedented levels. New Delhi, the nation’s capital, is on high alert as the extreme heat affects daily life and the ongoing general election. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts these conditions will persist, impacting millions across several states.
Rising Temperatures and Immediate Impact
On Friday, parts of New Delhi experienced temperatures as high as 47.1 degrees Celsius (116 degrees Fahrenheit). Neighboring states like Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan also faced extreme heat. Soma Sen Roy, a scientist at the IMD, predicts continued high temperatures over the next few days. The IMD advises residents to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, stay hydrated, and wear loose-fitting clothing to cope with the heat.
Heat Wave and the General Election
The timing of this heat wave is particularly concerning as it coincides with a crucial six-week-long general election. Extreme temperatures pose significant health risks to voters who may have to wait in long queues and to political candidates campaigning outdoors. Recently, a minister fainted from the heat during an election rally in Maharashtra, highlighting the potential dangers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his main opposition, Rahul Gandhi, are scheduled to hold rallies in New Delhi, raising concerns over the health and safety of attendees.
The Economic and Social Impact
The scorching temperatures are taking a toll on daily life and the economy. Satish Kumar, a 57-year-old rickshaw driver in New Delhi, reported a decrease in business as fewer people venture outside. Pravin Kamath, a vendor selling cold drinks, described the difficulty of working in such extreme heat. The poorer segments of society, who must continue working despite the harsh conditions, struggle the most.
Historical Context and Climate Change
India’s summer months of April, May, and June are typically hot, but the intensity of heat waves has increased over the past decade. These heat waves are often accompanied by severe water shortages, affecting millions who lack access to running water. A recent study by World Weather Attribution found that climate change has made heat waves like the current one at least 45 times more likely in parts of Asia. The study also indicated that pre-monsoon temperatures in South Asia are now about 0.85 degrees Celsius (1.5 degrees Fahrenheit) hotter due to climate change.
Health and Mortality
The public health crisis from extreme heat is becoming more severe. In April, heat waves led to at least 28 deaths in Bangladesh and five in India, with similar incidents reported in Thailand and the Philippines. Last year, over 150 heat-related deaths occurred in India. The government estimates that nearly 11,000 people have died from heat waves this century, although experts believe this figure is significantly under-counted.
Government Response and Future Outlook
In response to the increasing frequency and severity of heat waves, the Indian government is implementing measures to mitigate their impact. Public advisories, improvements in infrastructure, and better water management systems are some of the steps being taken. However, with climate change exacerbating extreme weather events, more comprehensive and long-term strategies are necessary.
Conclusion
The current heat wave in northern India underscores the urgent need for climate action and public health preparedness. As temperatures continue to rise, the vulnerabilities of the population, especially during critical periods like elections, become more pronounced. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from the government, communities, and individuals to adapt and mitigate the effects of extreme heat.
