Severe Heatwave Devastates India from March to May
From March to May, India experienced extreme heatwaves resulting in 56 deaths and nearly 25,000 suspected heat stroke cases, according to government data. The month of May was particularly harsh, with temperatures in Delhi and Rajasthan reaching a scorching 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit).
Cyclone and Rainfall Add to the Crisis
While western and northern India battled heatwaves, the eastern region faced Cyclone Remal's impact. Heavy rains in Assam have claimed 14 lives since Tuesday. Meanwhile, in Sri Lanka, at least 15 people died due to flooding and landslides caused by intense monsoon rains, according to the country's Disaster Management Centre (DMC).
Climate Change Intensifies the Heat
Scientists attribute the unusually hot summer in South Asia to human-driven climate change, which has exacerbated the heatwave conditions. This extreme weather has led to widespread health crises and fatalities.
Heatwave Casualties During Elections
On a single day in May, at least 33 people, including election officials, succumbed to suspected heatstroke in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Odisha. The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported that May saw the worst impact, with 46 heat-related deaths and 19,189 suspected heatstroke cases.
Regional Impact
The central state of Madhya Pradesh alone reported over 5,000 heatstroke cases. Nationwide, including suspected cases, the total death toll could be as high as 80, according to The Hindu.
Forecast Brings Hope
The weather office predicts a decrease in heatwave severity until Wednesday. The early arrival of the monsoon in Kerala is expected to provide some relief from the oppressive heat.
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