Extreme Heat Risk in India

 



India faces threat from extreme heat, impacting a large portion of its population. A recent study by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water revealed that approximately 76% of Indians are at high to very high risk from extreme heat. This risk is particularly acute in states like Delhi, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu. The study, published on May 20, 2025, developed a heat risk index to assess the situation across 734 districts based on various indicators.

About Heat Risk

Heat risk refers to the probability of experiencing heat-related illnesses or death due to extreme temperatures. It differs from heatwaves, which are prolonged periods of high temperatures, and heat stress, which occurs when body temperature exceeds safe levels. Heat risk is influenced by temperature intensity, exposure duration, and community vulnerabilities.

Factors Driving Heat Risk

Several factors contribute to the rising heat risk in India:Increase in Very Warm Nights: Between 2012 and 2022, districts reported an increase in very warm nights, which hinder the body’s ability to cool down after hot days. Over 70% of districts experienced five or more additional very warm nights each summer.
Rising Relative Humidity: The relative humidity in North India has increased , particularly in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. This rise complicates the body’s cooling process, exacerbating heat stress during peak summer months.
High Population Density: Urban areas with high population density, such as Mumbai and Delhi, are more exposed to extreme heat. Rapid urbanisation in tier II and III cities has led to the emergence of concrete structures that trap heat, further increasing local temperatures.
Socio-Economic Vulnerabilities: Districts with a higher prevalence of non-communicable diseases and a larger elderly population are more susceptible to heat-related health risks. States like Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh face compounded vulnerabilities due to socio-economic factors.

Significance of Current Trends

The year 2024 was marked as the warmest on record globally, with India experiencing a temperature rise of about 1.2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. The country recorded its longest heatwave since 2010, resulting in over 44,000 heatstroke cases. Current heat action plans in Indian cities are insufficient and lack long-term strategies to address extreme heat effectively. This inadequacy could lead to increased heat-related fatalities in the future.

Future Implications

The ongoing rise in temperatures and humidity levels signifies an urgent need for improved heat action plans. Effective strategies must be implemented to mitigate the health risks associated with extreme heat. Without adequate measures, India could face escalating challenges in public health and urban management due to climate change.

Event Details:

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