Delhi heatwave, Not 51 Degrees Celsius, But Feels That Hot: What's Behind Delhi's Heat
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Climate change & international agreements· Prelims·
Why in news
Delhi experienced extreme heat stress as the heat index reached 51.3°C due to high humidity, highlighting the impact of wet-bulb temperatures on human health.
Background
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded a maximum temperature of 41.3°C in Delhi, which was 4.1°C above normal. The heat index reached 51.3°C, while the wet-bulb temperature was recorded at 29.77°C.
Facts for Prelims
- FactHeat Index: A measure that combines air temperature and relative humidity to determine the 'apparent temperature' or how hot it feels.
- S&TWet-bulb temperature: The lowest temperature that can be reached by evaporating water; it determines the limit of human survivability in heat.
- BodyIndia Meteorological Department (IMD): The national agency responsible for meteorological observations and forecasting in India.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how rising wet-bulb temperatures and urban heat islands pose a significant threat to public health and urban planning in Indian metropolitan cities.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Physiological limit: Human body's inability to cool via perspiration when wet-bulb temperatures exceed 35°C
- Urban Heat Island effect: Concrete density and lack of green cover exacerbating local temperature spikes
- Infrastructure gap: Lack of cooling centers and heat-action plans for vulnerable outdoor laborers
Keywords: Heat Index · Wet-bulb temperature · Urban Heat Island · Climate Adaptation · Heat Stress
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