In response to parliamentary question, Minister of State of Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh shared NCRB data. UP saw twice as many heatwave days as Andhra, but latter recorded more deaths.
Report on ‘temperatures beyond the heatwave’ published last week underlines how heat stress disrupts life, says nations used to heatwaves have already developed mitigation strategies.
Survey also reveals that A/C units can lower indoor temperatures by up to 20°C only, compared to outdoor temperatures. Most struggle to cool below 27°C when temperatures are extreme.
Before rain brought respite, doctors say surge in number of patients with heatstroke & heat exhaustion put unparalleled pressure on hospitals' resources, with most needing intensive care.
Within two days, 23 UP govt employees were admitted to the crowded Mirzapur district hospital with only one ER doctor and a few nurses. Nine of them died, with heat listed as a 'suspected cause'.
At 14, Madhya Pradesh reports highest number of deaths due to heat-related illnesses, followed by Maharashtra at 11. MP also recorded most suspected heat stroke cases at 6,584.
With forecast of 106% LPA rainfall, IMD announces favourable conditions for monsoon's advance. Climate models indicate warmer El Niño conditions likely to end by August-September.
According to IMD, higher than expected minimum temperatures are increasing regions' heat stress by not allowing surfaces to cool down post sundown. This could have deadly health impacts.
One such website has drawn particular scrutiny for spreading fake stories that have upset not only the Indian but also foreign defence firms by falsely attributing misinformation.
Standing up to America is usually not a personal risk for a leader in India. Any suggestions of foreign pressure unites India behind who they see as leading them in that fight.
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