18 February 2024 | Khaiwal Ravindra, Sanjeev Bhardwaj, Chhotu Ram, Akshi Goyal, Vikas Singh, Chandra Venkataraman, Subhash C. Bhan, Ranjeet S. Sokhi, Suman Mor
The study examines the projected impacts of rising global temperatures on heatwaves in India and provides insights into mitigation and adaptation strategies. With over 24,000 heatwave-related deaths from 1992 to 2015, there is an urgent need to understand India's vulnerabilities and prepare adaptive strategies under various emission scenarios. The research uses climatic models and statistical approaches to characterize heat extremes and improve projections. The study finds that severe heatwaves can exacerbate chronic health conditions, vector-borne diseases, air pollution, droughts, and other socio-economic pressures, leading to higher mortality and morbidity. Future projections suggest a temperature rise of ±1.2°C to ±3.5°C by the end of 2050. The study also highlights the need for high-resolution modeling, interdisciplinary approaches, and detailed impact studies to advance understanding of future heat risks across India. Recommendations include promoting eco-friendly architectural practices, expanding agroforestry and afforestation, enhancing early warning systems, and scaling up urban greening schemes to mitigate heat stress and build resilience against climate change.The study examines the projected impacts of rising global temperatures on heatwaves in India and provides insights into mitigation and adaptation strategies. With over 24,000 heatwave-related deaths from 1992 to 2015, there is an urgent need to understand India's vulnerabilities and prepare adaptive strategies under various emission scenarios. The research uses climatic models and statistical approaches to characterize heat extremes and improve projections. The study finds that severe heatwaves can exacerbate chronic health conditions, vector-borne diseases, air pollution, droughts, and other socio-economic pressures, leading to higher mortality and morbidity. Future projections suggest a temperature rise of ±1.2°C to ±3.5°C by the end of 2050. The study also highlights the need for high-resolution modeling, interdisciplinary approaches, and detailed impact studies to advance understanding of future heat risks across India. Recommendations include promoting eco-friendly architectural practices, expanding agroforestry and afforestation, enhancing early warning systems, and scaling up urban greening schemes to mitigate heat stress and build resilience against climate change.