A deadly heat wave has swept through eastern India, claiming the lives of at least 14 people, including 10 election officials. Temperatures have soared to a scorching 49.9 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) in some parts of the country this week, prompting concerns about heat-related illnesses.
The weeklong heat wave has led to the closure of schools in several areas and has raised the risk of heatstroke for outdoor laborers. The Bihar state government reported that 14 people have died in the state, with the highest number of fatalities in Bhojpur and Rohtas districts where day temperatures reached 44 degrees Celsius (111 degrees Fahrenheit).
As India is in the midst of a 6-week long general election, the heat wave has added to the challenges faced by voters. The extreme temperatures have posed health risks to the millions of people who have been waiting in long lines to cast their ballots. The final round of voting is scheduled for Saturday, with the counting of votes set to take place on June 4.
In addition to the human toll, the heat wave has also impacted animals, putting them at risk of dehydration and heatstroke. The scorching temperatures have exacerbated water shortages in the region, highlighting the growing public health crisis posed by extreme heat in India.
A recent study by World Weather Attribution found that climate change has made extreme heat events like the current heat wave in India significantly more likely. The study revealed that global warming has caused temperatures in South Asia to be about 0.85 degrees Celsius (1.5 degrees Fahrenheit) hotter, leading to more frequent and intense heat waves during the pre-monsoon season.
As India grapples with the effects of rising temperatures and water scarcity, authorities are working to mitigate the impact of heat waves on vulnerable populations and implement measures to adapt to a changing climate.
