The intense heat wave that is engulfing Delhi has increased the number of deaths in city hospitals associated with heat-related illnesses, even though the forecast is promising. According to an official source in the Delhi government, 310 patients with heat related illnesses have been admitted to its hospitals in the last 48 hours. Among them fourteen have died and twenty seven were dead by the time they were brought to Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital.
A brutally prolonged heat wave has affected large areas of northern India, including the nation’s capital. As a result, the number of people suffering from heat stroke has increased, and the Center has advised hospitals to establish special units to treat these patients.
According to police, fifty bodies, clearly from low-income families, have been found in and around Delhi over the last three days.
Delhi Weather: Advice from the Authorities
The heat wave’s effects are still severe even though rain is predicted. Authorities are advising locals to seek medical attention if they exhibit any symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke and to take the appropriate safety measures to shield themselves from the intense heat.
How can heatstroke be avoided?
Guidelines to help prevent heatstroke have been released by the Delhi Disaster Management Authority. It recommended drinking lots of water, staying out of the sun as much as possible, and taking water with you when you travel. They advise staying away from tea, coffee, alcohol, and carbonated drinks because they can cause dehydration. Instead, they suggest ORS and homemade drinks like buttermilk, lassi, torani (rice water), and lemon water.
When going outside, the authority advises carrying an umbrella and goggles along with clothing made of loose, porous cotton in light colors. Regular use of cold showers is also recommended.
Record demand for electricity in the sweltering heat
Delhi’s electricity demand has increased to previously unheard-of levels due to the intense heat. Demand exceeded last month’s record of 8,302 MW when it peaked on Tuesday afternoon at 8,647 MW. Power distribution companies blame the heat wave, urbanization, population growth, and rising usage of air conditioners and electronics for this spike.
