We are used to the heat in South Asia. But soaring temperatures are reaching new records – sooner than usual.
It is hot in India and Pakistan. In northern India in particular, temperatures rise to values that are usually only reached in summer. In some places the temperature is already more than 45 degrees. Forecasters expect to break the 50-degree mark by the end of the week. And that’s after it was hotter in March than at any time since records began more than 120 years ago.
Natalie Mairuth says that the body finds it difficult to cool down because it is so warm in the morning. She is a freelance journalist currently based in Delhi. “You leave the room in the morning without air conditioning and feel the warmth coming towards you.” A score of 46 was reported for Friday.
Daily battle against the heat
People in affected areas are developing their own strategies to deal with the heat. If you can, leave the house only if necessary or with an air-conditioned vehicle if possible. In Delhi, the government advised companies not to send their employees to the office. Those who work outside should take shelter in the shade or take breaks.
Mairuth said most homes have ceiling fans. However, these will not be sufficient at such high temperatures. And they need energy. The only thing that helps: drink. Coconut water, water with salt and sugar, watermelon liquid.
Lent also falls during this heat wave. “In India there are nearly 200 million Muslim women, many of whom fast,” says the journalist. Authorities are issuing heat warnings and doctors are on alert.
In some regions, such as northern India, the burden is greater. Because in the north it is very dry. “And then there’s also the risk that the body won’t take it,” says Natalie Mairuth.
Hot weather affects not only people, but also nature and agriculture. There are already warnings that this year’s crop will be affected.
India grows a lot of rice and wheat, and plans to export more. Expectations have now fallen. “If it gets hot faster, the fruits that ripen earlier are smaller. Farmers also have to make sure their crops don’t wither,” says Mayruth. The situation can be difficult, especially for small farmers.
Such extreme events are increasing with climate change. The journalist in North India explains that one of the Indian government’s initiatives is reforestation. However, it plays a role, whether forests are reforested or whether plantations are involved. Because it will be cut again at a certain point. And: “The hotter they get, the more water they use. This has an impact on agriculture.”
India also relies on solar energy when it comes to energy. The world’s largest solar park is currently being built in India, which is what the government has given its name. India wants to focus on green hydrogen production.” Mairuth estimates that this is positive. On the other hand, one should not forget that coal-fired power generation has increased. These are of course factors accelerating climate change.”
“Typical entrepreneur. Lifelong beer expert. Hipster-friendly internet buff. Analyst. Social media enthusiast.”
More Stories
Why Are Researchers Warning About This Shrimp Jesus On Facebook
Customs duties dispute in Germany – Deutsche Bahn waives 35 hours per week – News
Tips for your next vacation: These are the most beautiful coasts for swimming and hiking