India Endured Blistering Heat Waves, Stressing Power Grids and Water Supplies
A Scorching Reality
In mid‑February 2024, India endured blistering heatwaves that pushed temperatures above 45°C in several states. Coming unusually early in the year, the heat strained power grids, triggered water shortages, and endangered public health.
Climate Change Connection
Attribution studies show India’s heatwaves are becoming more frequent and severe due to global warming. Rising greenhouse gases intensify baseline temperatures, while urban heat islands amplify local extremes. The February event was a stark reminder that climate change is not a distant threat—it is reshaping daily life.
Human and Economic Toll
Outdoor workers, children, and the elderly faced the greatest risks. Hospitals reported spikes in heat‑related illnesses, while schools and workplaces struggled to adapt. Agriculture suffered as crops wilted, threatening food security. Power demand surged, leading to blackouts in some regions.
Government Response
Authorities issued heat alerts, opened cooling centers, and urged conservation. Long‑term measures include expanding renewable energy to meet demand, redesigning cities with green spaces, and investing in climate‑smart agriculture.
Lessons Learned
India’s heatwaves highlight the urgency of adaptation. Infrastructure, health systems, and agriculture must be redesigned for hotter conditions. The crisis also underscores global inequities: nations with high emissions drive warming, but vulnerable populations bear the brunt.
