Several regions and states in India are particularly vulnerable to heat waves due to a combination of geographical, meteorological, and socio-economic factors. States like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and parts of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh experience extreme temperatures during summer months, often exceeding 45 degrees Celsius. These areas are characterized by geographical features such as arid or semi-arid landscapes with sparse vegetation, which exacerbate the heat due to reduced moisture and vegetation cover. Urban heat island effects further intensify temperatures in densely populated cities. Socio-economic factors such as inadequate access to cooling infrastructure, electricity, and safe drinking water amplify the vulnerability of marginalized communities, including agricultural workers and urban slum dwellers. Climate change has also contributed to more frequent and intense heat waves in recent years, further escalating the risks. Efforts to mitigate these vulnerabilities include early warning systems, improved urban planning, and community-based adaptation strategies aimed at protecting vulnerable populations during extreme heat events.
You said very true ma'am India faces significant vulnerability to heat waves, especially in states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and parts of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, where summer temperatures often exceed 45°C. These regions have arid or semi-arid landscapes with minimal vegetation, intensifying the heat. Urban areas experience even higher temperatures due to the urban heat island effect. Socio-economic challenges, such as limited access to cooling, electricity, and safe water, heighten risks for marginalized groups like agricultural workers and slum residents. Climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of heat waves, necessitating improved early warning systems, urban planning, and community adaptation strategies to protect at-risk populations.