Politics · India Bureau
India ranks among nations most exposed to dangerous heatwaves
A new report identifies India as one of the world's leading countries for heatwave exposure among vulnerable populations, including infants and elderly residents. The findings underscore the growing public health threat posed by extreme heat across South Asia.
LSN India ·
India features prominently among global nations with the highest levels of heatwave exposure for infants and older adults, according to recent analysis of climate and demographic data. The assessment highlights the vulnerability of these age groups to extreme temperature events, a concern that has intensified as heat-related incidents continue to impact the subcontinent.
While global heatwave exposure showed a decrease from 2024's record levels, vulnerable populations worldwide remain at significant risk. In 2024, older adults experienced 15.3 billion person-days of heatwave exposure globally, while infants faced 2.3 billion person-days, marking historically elevated figures.
India's ranking reflects the country's large elderly and infant populations combined with recurring extreme heat episodes. The vulnerability of these age groups stems from physiological factors that make them less able to regulate body temperature and more susceptible to heat-related illnesses including dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
Public health officials and climate scientists have increasingly emphasized the need for targeted interventions to protect vulnerable communities during extreme heat events. Such measures typically include early warning systems, cooling centers, and public awareness campaigns about heat safety practices.
The findings underscore the intersection of climate change impacts and demographic challenges facing India, as temperatures continue to rise across much of the region during summer months.