Extreme Heat Wave Grips India
India is currently facing a severe heat wave, with temperatures soaring well above 45 degrees Celsius in several cities, posing a significant public health crisis.
Heatwave Impact on Megacities
The capital city, New Delhi, experienced temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, leading to a surge in power usage as the population, estimated at over 30 million, struggled to cope with the intense heat.
Expert Warnings
Experts warn that urbanization and climate change are exacerbating the impact of extreme temperatures on cities. Aarti Khosla, director at the Climate Trends research institute, highlights the increasing vulnerability of cities to heat waves due to changing weather patterns influenced by human emissions.
Climate Change and Heat Waves
Scientific research indicates that climate change is making heat waves in India longer, more frequent, and more intense. Studies show that cities in India are experiencing reduced cooling at night, leading to prolonged stress on the population.
Human-Induced Climate Change
Researchers attribute the devastating heat impact in India to human-induced climate change, emphasizing the urgent need to address the root causes. The reliance on coal for power generation poses a challenge in achieving sustainable energy practices.
Call for Action
Experts urge for immediate action to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The commitment to achieve a net-zero emissions economy by 2070 reflects India’s efforts to combat climate change and protect its citizens from extreme heat events.