Heatwave Alert: Light Rain Brings Relief to Delhi, Heat-Related Deaths Rise to 34—Prevention Tips Included

Intense Heatwave Grips Northwestern India

As northwestern India suffers through one of the most intense heatwaves on record, the effects are devastating. Over 40,000 suspected heatstroke cases have emerged across the country this summer, with more than 100 lives lost nationwide.

The ongoing heatwave has caused significant distress across Asia, with scientists attributing the worsening conditions to human-induced climate change.

Northern India's temperatures have soared to nearly 50 degrees Celsius during this prolonged heatwave.

Light Rain Brings Respite to Delhi

On Thursday morning, June 20, parts of Delhi and Noida experienced light rainfall, providing a much-needed respite from the relentless heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted light to moderate rain and winds for various parts of Delhi-NCR and surrounding regions.

“Light to moderate intensity rain and winds with speeds of 20-30 km/h are expected over parts of North Delhi, North-East Delhi, North-West Delhi, West Delhi, Central Delhi, and NCR,” the IMD posted on X (formerly Twitter).

A western disturbance may bring slight relief over the next few days, according to the IMD. The monsoon’s advance, which had stalled between June 12 and 18, is now anticipated to progress further, potentially alleviating the heat in northern India.

Heat-Related Deaths in Delhi

Delhi NCR has been severely affected by the heatwave, with a notable increase in heat-related deaths and hospitalizations. City hospitals reported at least 34 suspected heat-related deaths in the last 48 hours. Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital (DDUH) recorded 27 deaths, primarily of homeless individuals brought in by passersby. Various government hospitals across Delhi have reported a total of 14 deaths due to heat-related causes in the past two days, with six at Lok Nayak Hospital. Earlier, two deaths due to heat stroke were reported at the same hospital. The Times of India reported at least 52 people were declared dead upon arrival at healthcare facilities under the Delhi Government due to heat-related conditions in the last two days.

Delhi’s hospitals are overwhelmed by the heatwave. Over the past two days, 310 patients with heat-related illnesses were admitted to Delhi government hospitals. Safdarjung Hospital initially reported five deaths due to heatstroke but later confirmed only two, citing other diagnoses.

Government Response to the Heatwave

In response to the severe heatwave and rising heat-related casualties, Union Health Minister JP Nadda reviewed the situation and hospital preparedness with senior health ministry officials on Wednesday.

The government, lacking official data on heatwave-related cases and deaths, directed states to start submitting daily reports from all health facilities and investigate suspected heat-related deaths. States were also instructed to disseminate the IMD’s heatwave warnings daily after 4 pm, including forecasts for the next four days, to health facilities and vulnerable populations.

Following the review meeting, the Union Health Ministry issued an advisory to states and Union Territories, directing hospitals to be fully prepared to provide optimal healthcare to those affected by the heatwave.

Preventing Heatstroke: Essential Tips

The Delhi Disaster Management Authority has issued guidelines to help prevent heatstroke:

1. Avoid the Sun: Stay indoors, especially between noon and 3 pm.

2. Hydration: Drink water frequently and carry water while travelling.

3. Avoid Dehydrating Drinks: Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated drinks. Instead, consume ORS and homemade beverages like lassi, torani (rice water), lemon water, and buttermilk.

4. Clothing: Wear light-coloured, loose, porous cotton fabrics.

5. Protection: Use goggles and an umbrella when outdoors.

6. Cold Showers: Take frequent cold showers to stay cool.

Record Power Demand Amid Scorching Temperatures

The extreme heat has caused Delhi’s power demand to reach unprecedented levels.

On Tuesday afternoon, demand peaked at 8,647 MW, surpassing the previous record of 8,302 MW set last month. Power distribution companies attribute this surge to the heatwave, population growth, urbanization, and increased use of electronic devices and air conditioners.

Actions to Mitigate Heatwave Impact

To better cope with the heatwave, individuals and communities can take several actions:

1. Stay Informed: Regularly check weather updates and heatwave warnings.

2. Community Support: Check on neighbors, especially the elderly and vulnerable, to ensure they are staying cool and hydrated.

3. Emergency Contacts: Have emergency contacts ready and know the location of the nearest hospital.

4. Indoor Cooling: Use fans, air conditioning, and cool compresses to stay comfortable indoors.

Growing Plants to Combat Heat

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Planting trees and maintaining green spaces can help mitigate the effects of heatwaves:

1. Shade Trees: Plant trees that provide ample shade to cool your surroundings.

2. Rooftop Gardens: Create rooftop gardens to reduce heat absorption by buildings.

3. Community Gardens: Establish community gardens to increase green cover and promote local cooling.

4. Indoor Plants: Use indoor plants to improve air quality and provide a cooling effect indoors.

Conclusion

The current heatwave in northwestern India, particularly in Delhi, has brought significant challenges.

However, with timely interventions such as light rain, government action, and individual precautions, the impact can be managed.

Staying informed, supporting the vulnerable, and increasing green cover are essential steps to mitigate the effects of such extreme weather conditions.

Together, these efforts can help reduce the toll of heatwaves and promote a healthier, more resilient community.