Climate change intensified India's heatwaves in 2024 - Lancet study
Summary
A new report by The Lancet found that almost one-third of the heatwave days in India during 2024 were due to climate change. These heatwaves resulted in significant economic losses and health risks, especially affecting labor hours in agriculture and construction. The study highlights worsening air quality and the importance of addressing climate issues as health crises.Key Facts
- In 2024, India had an average of 19.8 heatwave days, with 6.6 days linked to human-caused climate change.
- The heatwaves led to an estimated loss of 247 billion work hours, mainly in agriculture and construction, costing about $194 billion.
- Prolonged heat exposure increases health risks like dehydration, heatstroke, and cardiovascular problems.
- The Lancet Countdown report tracks climate change's health impacts, highlighting increased heat-related deaths globally.
- Air quality in India continues to decline, with winter air often reaching hazardous levels.
- Around 1.7 million deaths in 2022 were due to air pollution, with pollutants like PM2.5 cited as a major concern.
- Heavy use of biofuels in rural India, such as wood and dung, contributes to health issues, especially among women and children.
- The report comes ahead of the COP30 climate summit in Brazil.
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