India's pre-monsoon season has intensified significantly over the past decade. The combination of climate change, urban heat island effects, and shifting weather patterns means extreme heat is now a public health emergency in multiple states each year.
Why Summers Are Getting More Extreme
Global warming has shifted India's average temperatures upward by approximately 0.7°C since 1900, with the bulk of that increase occurring since 1980. Urban expansion has compounded this — cities with large concrete footprints trap heat long after sundown.
Health Risks of Extreme Heat
Heat stroke — core body temperature above 40°C — can be fatal within hours. Warning signs: confusion, absence of sweating, rapid pulse, loss of consciousness. Treat as a medical emergency: move to shade, pour cold water on the person, call emergency services immediately.
Protecting Your Household
- Stay indoors between 11am and 4pm when possible
- Drink 3–4 litres of water daily; add ORS to one glass
- Wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothing outdoors
- Never leave children, elderly, or pets in parked vehicles
- Check on elderly neighbours daily during heat alerts