IMD has predicted a severe heatwave for several states in North India, including Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh
According to the latest bulletin of IMD, heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are expected to continue in these states until May 25.
States like Jammu, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh will also face heatwave conditions during this period, with Maharashtra experiencing similar conditions until May 24.
The blistering heatwave across India is affecting the health and livelihoods. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), population exposure to heat is increasing due to climate change.
Exposure to excessive heat has wide-ranging physiological impacts for all humans, often amplifying existing conditions and resulting in premature death and disability.
The negative health impacts of heat are predictable and largely preventable with specific public health actions.
WHO has issued public health guidance for the general public and medical professionals on coping with extreme heat
Although the heatwave can affect anyone, some populations are more exposed to the adverse effects of excess heat.