The Indian Ministry of Health has reported over 100 deaths and more than 40,000 cases of heatstroke due to an ongoing heatwave in the country over the past three and a half months.
According to data provided to the Associated Press by the Ministry of Health, 100 people in India succumbed to heatstroke between March 1 and June 18.
The highest number of fatalities was reported in the state of Uttar Pradesh with 36 deaths, followed by other northern states including Rajasthan, Bihar, and Odisha.
The data also revealed that among the 40,272 suspected heatstroke cases during this period, 457 cases were reported on Tuesday alone.
Despite brief rain and winds on Thursday morning, the capital city of New Delhi continues to experience extreme temperatures.
The Meteorological Department forecasts a slight drop in temperatures in the coming days but warns that severe weather conditions may resume afterwards.
In recent weeks, parts of New Delhi have recorded temperatures soaring to 51 degrees Celsius, leading to a record demand for electricity and frequent power outages in a city already grappling with a severe water crisis. Several regions in northern India have been forced to close schools due to the intense heat.
A United Nations report released by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) underscored Asia’s significant vulnerability to climate and weather-related disasters in 2023.
Floods and storms emerged as the primary culprits, resulting in substantial human casualties and economic damages.
According to the report, Asia experienced a staggering 79 water-related disasters in 2023, with floods and storms accounting for over 80% of these incidents.
These events claimed the lives of more than 2,000 individuals and directly affected another 9 million people across the continent. Floods emerged as the primary cause of death, highlighting Asia’s enduring vulnerability to natural hazards.
