Why Extreme Heat is Deadly: Causes and Effects

Title: Hundreds of Indians Killed as Deadly Heat Wave Sweeps Across the Country

Date: June 21, 2023

Location: Jakarta, Indonesia

Indians are currently grappling with an extreme heat wave that has resulted in numerous deaths. The majority of the victims are over 60 years old and suffer from congenital diseases. According to a report by Indian media outlet News18, a staggering 98 people have lost their lives in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, while an additional 400 individuals have been hospitalized with symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, and other health complications.

The scorching temperatures have raised concerns about the deadly nature of hot weather. When the body’s core temperature rises excessively, it can lead to a breakdown of bodily functions. This includes the death of cells and the occurrence of a devastating inflammatory response. The danger lies in how quickly heat-related deaths can occur. Older individuals are particularly vulnerable due to their cardiovascular systems being unable to withstand the stress caused by excessive heat.

However, even young and physically fit individuals can succumb to the extreme temperatures. A tragic incident in Phoenix in 2017 serves as a stark reminder of this fact. A personal trainer, who was mountain biking with friends on a day when temperatures soared to a staggering 47.7 degrees Celsius, fell victim to the heatwave.

The medical term for excessive body heat is hyperthermia. It manifests in two phases, with the initial phase being heat exhaustion. This condition is characterized by excessive sweating, nausea, vomiting, and even fainting. Symptoms also include a racing pulse and moisturized skin. Muscle cramps can serve as an early warning sign of exhaustion due to extreme heat.

Heat exhaustion can be prevented by relocating to a cool environment, loosening clothing, and applying cool, wet washcloths to the body. However, when individuals unable to find a cool place continue to experience the heat, they may develop heat stroke. Heat stroke occurs when a person’s core body temperature rises above 40 degrees Celsius. It is important to note that there is some degree of variability among individuals in terms of how much internal heat they can tolerate.

In cases of heat stroke, sweating ceases, and the skin becomes dry and flushed. The pulse becomes rapid, and the affected person may become delirious or even lose consciousness.

The current heat wave in India has highlighted the urgent need for individuals to take precautions and seek relief from the extreme temperatures. It is crucial to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and seek shelter in cool environments whenever possible.

As the heat wave continues to impact the country, it is essential for authorities and communities to work together to provide support and resources to those most vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat. Public awareness campaigns, access to cooling centers, and regular check-ins on elderly and at-risk individuals can help mitigate the devastating consequences of such weather events.

In conclusion, the ongoing heat wave in India has claimed the lives of hundreds of individuals, particularly those over 60 years old with pre-existing health conditions. The rapid onset and deadly nature of extreme heat emphasize the importance of taking precautions and providing support to vulnerable populations during such weather events.

heat stroke symptoms

Terized by symptoms such as heavy sweating, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and fatigue. If not addressed promptly, it can progress to heatstroke, which is a life-threatening condition. Heatstroke occurs when the body’s temperature rises above 40 degrees Celsius and can lead to organ failure and death if not treated immediately.

To combat the deadly effects of the heatwave, authorities in India have taken several measures. They have urged citizens to stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure, and seek shelter in cool and shaded areas. In addition, public spaces such as malls and community centers have been designated as cooling centers, providing relief to those without access to air conditioning.

Experts have attributed the severity of this heatwave to a combination of climate change and urban heat island effect. Climate change has led to more frequent and intense heatwaves globally, while the urban heat island effect occurs when cities and urban areas experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas. This is due to the abundance of concrete and asphalt, which absorb and retain heat.

Given the devastating impact of the heatwave, it is imperative for governments and communities to prioritize climate change mitigation efforts. This includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and implementing heat resilience measures in urban planning. Additionally, individuals can take steps to adapt to and mitigate the effects of heatwaves, such as staying informed about weather forecasts and taking necessary precautions to protect their health.

As the deadly heatwave continues to sweep across India, it serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and protect vulnerable communities from its adverse effects. Without immediate action, we can expect to see more frequent and severe heatwaves, posing a significant threat to human lives and well-being.