India heatwaves may rise 400% by century-end

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India faces a concerning forecast regarding heatwaves, as scientific projections estimate a potential increase of up to 400% by the end of the century. This trend could exacerbate health risks and economic losses due to labor capacity decline.

India’s average temperature has risen by just 0.7 degrees Celsius over the last century — but it tells a much bigger story. Scientific projections suggest that the frequency of summer heatwaves across India could rise by a staggering 300 to 400% by the end of the century. More troubling still is the rise in warm nights, projected to outpace the increase in warm days.Without adequate protection, heat-related illnesses — from rashes and cramps to life-threatening heatstrokes — are likely to become increasingly common.The economic cost is equally alarming. According to a 2024 study published in The Lancet, the annual labour hours lost in India due to heat exposure are now 124% higher than during 1990 to 1999, with agriculture accounting for nearly 66% of the losses.Reduced labour capacity during heatwaves leads to an annual income loss of nearly $194 billion. Clearly, the heat is on.131284958131284962131284970131284979131284984131284989131285009