NEW DELHI, May 21: On Monday, the national capital experienced scorching temperatures, reaching a maximum of 47.4 degrees Celsius—the highest recorded in the country.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe heatwave red alert for Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh, forecasting that the intense heatwave conditions will persist in the region over the coming days.
“Exposure to high temperatures for an extended period can result in heat stroke,” cautioned Dr. Satish Koul, Senior Director of Internal Medicine at Fortis Gurgaon, in conversation with IANS.
Dr. Atul Gogia, Senior Consultant and Head of Infectious Diseases at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, emphasized that prolonged exposure to excessively high temperatures during summer months can lead to various illnesses, including heat stroke, dehydration, drowsiness, and food and water-borne illnesses.
Dr. Satish highlighted that extreme temperatures can become life-threatening if accompanied by neurological symptoms such as altered mental status or behavior.
Dr. Atul warned that severe dehydration, resulting in renal shutdown, could also pose significant risks to health. Health experts emphasized that while rising temperatures can impact everyone, individuals at the extremes of age, such as the elderly or children, are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
In response to the soaring temperatures, the Delhi government has ordered the immediate closure of schools to protect students from the rising heatwaves.
“A high body temperature may lead to nausea and vomiting, poor concentration, cramps, throbbing headache, confusion, dizziness, palpitation, rapid pulse, and loss of consciousness,” explained Dr. G. J. Singh from Yashoda Super Specialty Hospital, Kaushambi.
Experts advised individuals to stay indoors during extreme heatwaves, wear lightweight clothing, maintain proper hydration, consume nutritious and balanced meals at home, and avoid eating meals from outside establishments.
As temperatures continue to rise across the region, authorities are urging citizens to take necessary precautions to mitigate the risks associated with extreme heat.
