Why Indian afternoons feel hotter than the actual temperature reading — the humidex story explained simply
Why Indian afternoons feel hotter than the actual temperature reading — the humidex story explained simply
IN · Published May 2, 2026
The humidex, or heat index, explains why afternoons in India often feel hotter than the actual temperature due to high humidity.
High humidity reduces the body's ability to cool itself through sweat evaporation, leading to a higher perceived temperature.
Understanding the humidex helps in taking necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses, especially in regions with high humidity.
Understanding why afternoons feel hotter in India
Have you ever noticed that afternoons in India often feel much hotter than what the thermometer reads? This is because of a phenomenon known as the humidex effect. The humidex, or heat index, is a measure of how hot it feels to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature. It's particularly relevant in India, where high humidity levels are common, especially during the monsoon and pre-monsoon seasons.
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