Heat Waves Taking A Toll

 March 2022 has been recorded as the warmest March since 1971, according to the IMD (Indian Meteorological Department). The IMD predicts heatwaves for at least five northwestern Indian states, with a maximum temperature rise of 2-3 throughout the county in its forecast. Heatwaves have claimed the lives of around 1700 people since 1971 in India. 

In Bihar, the prevailing heat waves have a direct bearing on the wheat crop. Fire due to heatwaves has resulted in the loss of crops for farmers. Instances of fire, due to heatwave have been reported across districts in states. The Disaster Management Department of State has asked officials to prepare themselves amidst the rising temperature. The IMD Bihar has predicted heatwave conditions (temperature above 40) for at least six districts of southwest Bihar districts this week. Bihar in 2019 had reported around 100 deaths due to heatwave

The IPCC report published earlier this year had predicted a rise in temperature for the coming years. The report had also spoken about food shortages due to rising temperatures in India. The most affected due to rising temperature are the poor who have to venture out daily to earn.

According to WHO (World Health Organisation), heat waves rarely are taken seriously. The WHO says “Heatwaves can burden health and emergency services and also increase strain on water, energy and transportation, resulting in power shortage or even blackout. Food and livelihood services may also be strained if people lose their crops or livestock due to extreme heat.”

The IMD describes the following health impact of heatwaves

1. Heat Cramps – Edina (swelling) and Syncope (Fainting) are generally accompanied by fever.

2. Heat exhaustion – Fatigue, Weakness, Dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps sweating.

3. Heat Stroke.

Measures suggested by IMD to minimize the impact during the heatwave.

1. Avoid going out in the Sun, especially between 12;00 noon 3;00 PM.

2. Drink water as often as possible, even if not thirsty.

3. Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose, and porous cotton clothes. Use protective goggles, umbrella/hat, shoes or chappals while going out in sun.

4. Avoid strenuous activities when the outside temperature is high. Avoid working outside between 12 noon and 3 p.m.

5. While travelling, carry water with you. o

6. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks, which dehydrate the body.

7. Avoid high-protein food and do not eat stale food. o If you work outside, use a hat or an umbrella and also use a damp cloth on your head, neck, face and limbs