In the sweltering heat of late May 2024, India's capital territory of Delhi and several other regions experienced record-breaking temperatures that led to numerous fatalities and water shortages. According to multiple sources, at least 50 people have died due to heat-related causes across India over the past week.
Delhi reached a new all-time high temperature of 49.9 degrees Celsius (121.8 degrees Fahrenheit) on Tuesday, May 29th, surpassing its previous record of 49.2 degrees Celsius (120.5 degrees Fahrenheit), set in May 2022.
The extreme heatwave has caused water shortages in Delhi and other areas, forcing authorities to impose water rationing measures. Some residents have been struggling to access water, while others have no supply at all.
Water shortages are not only due to the intense heat but also a lack of deliveries from Haryana state. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that areas like Mungeshpur in Delhi and Churu in Rajasthan reached temperatures near 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit).
The heatwave conditions are expected to continue for a few more days, but relief is on the way as temperatures are predicted to subside starting Thursday.
Heatwaves have become increasingly common and intense in India due to climate change. The country has seen a significant increase in heat-related deaths since 1992, with over 24,000 fatalities recorded. Extreme heat can also pose a threat to India's development and economic growth.
In addition to Delhi and Rajasthan, other regions like Bihar and Odisha have reported numerous heat-related deaths. The situation is particularly dire in the eastern states of Bihar and Odisha, where temperatures have been hovering around 45-46 degrees Celsius (113-115 degrees Fahrenheit) for days at a stretch.
The Indian authorities are urging people to take precautions against the heat, such as staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun. They also advise checking on elderly family members and neighbors during extreme heat conditions.
