Killer heat waves

Experts stressed upon the fact that duration of heat waves are increasing over the years. From the coming decades, every region has been experiencing hotter temperatures and more frequent and intense heat waves. This worsening heat poses serious health risks, especially for the very young and elderly, construction and agricultural workers, and those living in the core of urban areas.

Last year the heat waves lasted for more than normal average day, which is definitely a result of climate change. In May the heat waves continued for more 3 days than normal. Similarly was the case in May as well.

“Earlier heaviest rainfall in the world used to be witnessed at Meghalaya. But from past few seasons it has been seen that the rainfall there is deficient. Whereas in states like Rajasthan, Gujrat, we are noticing flood. This is not natural.”

It may be noted that in the next few decades, if carbon emissions continue to grow, most of the country could see 20 to 30 more days annually with maximum temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.  In India, heat-wave caused 22,562 deaths between 1992 and 2015. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which provides an objective, scientific view of climate change and its political and economic impacts, the frequency of heat waves in India is projected to increase by 30 times the current frequency by the end of the century.