Over 100 people have died in India due to extreme heat, with record-high temperatures and thousands of suspected heat stroke cases. Authorities are taking action as climate experts warn of increased frequency of severe heat waves due to climate change.
Extreme Heat Claims Over 100 Lives in India
In a span of three and a half months from March 1 to June 18, 2024, extreme heat across India has resulted in the deaths of at least 110 people and over 40,000 suspected cases of heat stroke. Data from India’s Health Ministry indicates that the northern state of Uttar Pradesh reported the highest number of fatalities with 36 deaths. Rajasthan, Bihar, and Odisha were also significantly affected.
New Delhi, the capital, experienced record-high temperatures, leading to increased energy demand and water scarcity. Authorities, including Health Minister J P Nadda, have initiated special heat wave units in government hospitals to address the health crisis.
India’s weather department reported that parts of the country, including New Delhi, had temperatures reaching up to 51°C (123.8°F), marking one of the longest continuous heat spells. The country’s definition of a heat wave includes temperatures over 40°C (104°F) in the plains and 30°C (86°F) or higher in hilly regions.
In response to the intense heat, some areas have closed schools, and India’s weather service anticipates some temporary respite but expects extreme weather to persist. The prevalence of severe heat waves is attributed to climate change, with climate experts highlighting a significant increase in frequency and intensity over the last decade.
The National Centre for Disease Control, part of the Health Ministry, compiled the data but declined further comment. The World Weather Attribution study found that climate change has greatly increased the likelihood of such extreme weather events in South Asia.
