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Heat Deaths Underreported: Experts Warn of Crisis
16 Feb
Summary
- Heatstroke deaths recorded at 733 between March and June.
- Official figures reported 360 deaths in the same period.
- Indoor heat risks are severe, particularly for women.
Experts are urging a significant shift in how extreme heat is covered and addressed, emphasizing the need to examine the working conditions of individuals most exposed to dangerous temperatures. A recent webinar, 'Covering Heat: What Gets Missed,' brought attention to the social justice dimensions of climate change.
During March and June of 2024, an organization recorded 733 heatstroke deaths across 17 Indian states. This figure contrasts sharply with official government data, which reported 360 deaths in the same states during a slightly longer period. These discrepancies highlight a critical gap in understanding the true impact of heatwaves.
The conversation also underscored that heat risks extend beyond outdoor environments. Individuals living in homes with inadequate insulation, such as tin roofs, face intense indoor heat. Women are identified as particularly vulnerable due to extended time spent indoors for domestic duties, exacerbating risks like mental health challenges and domestic violence.
