The national capital, Delhi, is on a red alert, with maximum temperature expected to hit 45° C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted some relief from the intense heat from June 19 onwards. Temperatures in Delhi soared to 45.2° C on Monday as a brutal heat wave gripped the region.
Most places in Delhi witnessed heatwave to severe heatwave conditions. The Safdarjung observatory recorded 45.2° C, which is a significant 6.4 notches above the season’s average. If the days are hot, the mornings are no better. Monday saw a warm morning too, with the minimum temperature settling at 33° C, which is 5.5 notches above normal.
IMD Weather Update
The Palam weather station recorded a maximum temperature of 46° C, 7 notches above normal, Lodhi Road recorded 45.6° C, Ridge 46.3° C, Ayanagar 46.4° C, and Najafgarh 46.3° C, which is 7 notches above normal.
The IMD also alerted that not only Delhi but many parts of Uttar Pradesh are expected to witness heatwave to severe heatwave conditions till June 19. Himachal Pradesh and Bihar are also expected to witness similar conditions till June 18.
Jammu and Kashmir, North Madhya Pradesh and North Coastal Andhra Pradesh are also expected to witness heatwave conditions till June 18. Uttar Pradesh and East Madhya Pradesh are also expected to witness warm to severe warm night conditions till June 18.
What Is A Heatwave?
According to IMD, when the maximum temperature of a weather station reaches at least 40° C in plains, 37° in the coastal areas, and 30° in the hilly regions, and the departure from normal is at least 4.5 notches, it is considered to be heatwave conditions. If the departure from the normal exceeds 6.4 notches, then it is considered a severe heatwave.
While Delhi is expected to see slight relief from Wednesday, with the city falling back to a 'yellow' alert on Wednesday and Thursday, and then to a 'green' alert on Friday and Saturday, it is important to be aware of the severe health consequences of a heatwave.
Heatwave Causing Heat-Related Illness
Talking to the Onlymyhealth team Dr Shiva Kumar R, Head and Senior Consultant, Neurology, Manipal Hospital, Sarjapu, Bengaluru, said, “Heatstroke is a serious medical emergency that occurs when the body overheats and can no longer cool itself down.”
He explained, “Our bodies primarily cool down through evaporation, like sweating. However, high humidity can hinder this process, trapping heat and increasing the risk of overheating. When the body temperature rises, it demands more oxygen, leading to an increased heart rate and rapid breathing.”
Recognising the Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke presents with a range of symptoms, including:
- Elevated body temperature (above 105°F or 40.5°C)
- Confusion or altered behaviour
- Changes in sweating patterns (may be absent or excessive)
- Nausea and vomiting, often accompanied by flushed skin
- Rapid breathing and a racing heart rate
- Headache
Potential Complications of Heatstroke
Dr Kumar said, “The severity of complications from heatstroke depends on the duration of the elevated body temperature.” He highlighted some of the most concerning consequences:
- Organ Damage: If left untreated, heatstroke can cause lasting damage to the brain and other vital organs.
- Death: In severe cases where prompt and proper treatment is not provided, heatstroke can be fatal.
While Delhi residents can expect some relief from the scorching temperatures with the IMD downgrading the alert level, it's crucial to remain cautious. Heatstroke is a serious health risk even during moderate heatwaves. Heatstroke is a preventable condition. By staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activity in extreme heat, and wearing loose, breathable clothing, you can significantly reduce your risk.