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Heatwave alert issued for northern India
India's weather department has warned that parts of northern India, including the capital Delhi, are set to face intense heatwaves over the weekend. The announcement follows temperatures surpassing 40°C in some areas of Delhi on Thursday, marking one of the hottest days recorded in the city this year.
Wider impact across central and western regions
The weather agency also forecast above-normal temperatures in several central and western states, such as Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, over the next two to three days. Officials indicated that temperatures in northern and central India could rise by an additional 2-3°C in the coming days.
Health risks and economic toll of extreme heat
India's summers are notoriously hazardous, with extreme heat contributing to a range of heat-related illnesses and fatalities. A 2024 report by The Lancet revealed that nearly one-third of the heatwave days experienced in India that year were linked to climate change. The study estimated that heat exposure in 2024 led to the loss of 247 billion potential labor hours, primarily in agriculture and construction, resulting in an economic loss of approximately $194 billion (£151 billion).
Precautionary measures in schools
In response to the rising temperatures, Delhi's education department issued guidelines for schools to mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions. Schools have been instructed to halt open-air classes, limit outdoor assemblies, and conduct them indoors where possible. Additionally, a bell is to be rung every 45-60 minutes to remind students to stay hydrated.
Health experts warn of severe consequences
Health experts caution that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can overwhelm the body's ability to regulate temperature, increasing the risk of dehydration, heatstroke, cardiovascular stress, and even death. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, infants, and outdoor workers, are particularly at risk.
