Heat Wave Warnings: A Stark Reminder Of Climate Change; Know Reasons, Measures, Action Plan, And More From Expert

Heat waves that were once occasional and fleeting periods of discomfort are now rapidly transforming into a defining threat of our changing climate. We got in touch with our expert, Rajeev Aacharya who has vast knowledge of environment and ecology, is a senior officer working in the water department of Uttar Pradesh and a member of the Indian Water Works Association Mumbai. He shared his expert inputs on the reasons behind this dire climate situation, measures to beat this heat, and a probable action plan for the future. Read this article to know more about it.

“These prolonged stretches of scorching temperatures pose a significant threat to human health, ecosystems, and infrastructure across the globe. Understanding the link between climate change and heat waves is crucial to developing effective solutions and safeguarding ourselves from this intensifying danger,” the expert said.

He added, “The Sixth Assessment Report of the IPCC warns that these trends will continue and escalate if we fail to curb greenhouse gas emissions.” Here's a glimpse into the reports from leading organisations:

• The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) predicts a direct correlation between global warming and heat waves. With each additional degree of warming, heat waves will become more frequent, intense, and widespread.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the cumulative physiological stress caused by extended heat periods, leading to a rise in heat-related illnesses and mortality, particularly among vulnerable populations.
• The Climate Change Centre (C2ES) in the United States estimates an alarming increase in the number of days exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit in most regions by mid-century. 

Reasons Behind The Heat Wave Warnings

• Climate Change: The primary offender is undoubtedly climate change. Rising global temperatures create a baseline from which heat waves emerge. What may have been considered a hot day previously is now the new "normal," making heat waves even more extreme.
• Urban Heat Island Effect: Delhi, like many large cities, suffers from the urban heat island effect. Vast expanses of concrete and asphalt absorb and retain heat more readily than natural landscapes.
• Reduced Rainfall: Decreased rainfall patterns in recent years contribute to drier conditions, leading to less evaporative cooling - a natural process that helps regulate temperature. With less moisture in the air, heat waves become more severe.

Measures To Beat The Heat

• While the long-term solution lies in tackling climate change, there are steps Delhi can take to mitigate the immediate effects of heat waves:

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• Heat Action Plans: Implementing heat action plans is crucial. These plans involve issuing timely heat wave warnings, setting up cooling centres for vulnerable populations, and advising residents on precautionary measures.

• Urban Greening: Planting more trees and creating green spaces can significantly reduce the urban heat island effect. 
• Water Conservation: Heat waves often coincide with droughts. Water conservation efforts, like fixing leaks, using water-efficient appliances, and promoting rainwater harvesting, become even more critical during these periods.

Action Plan For Cooler Future

• Invest in Renewable Energy: Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power is crucial to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change's impact on heat waves.
• Sustainable Urban Planning: Developing cities with more green spaces, promoting walkable and bikeable infrastructure, and utilising heat-resistant building materials can help combat the urban heat island effect.
• International Cooperation: Climate change is a global challenge. International cooperation to reduce carbon emissions through stricter regulations and collaborative efforts is essential to address this issue effectively.

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