India and Pakistan Endure Dangerous Heatwave with High Humidity
India and Pakistan Endure Dangerous Heatwave with High Humidity
IN · Published Jun 1, 2026
India and Pakistan are grappling with an intense and prolonged heatwave that began in mid-April
Daily maximum temperatures have exceeded 46°C (114.8°F) in many areas, with some regions experiencing temperatures 5–8°C above seasonal norms. The heatwave has caused at least 37 deaths in India and 10 in Pakistan, though experts believe the actual toll is much higher due to underreporting. High-pressure systems have trapped heat, suppressing cloud formation and rainfall, while urban heat islands exacerbate the situation. Climate change is a significant factor, with studies indicating that global warming has made such events three times more likely and about 1°C hotter. The combination of extreme heat and high humidity is particularly lethal, as it hampers the body's ability to cool itself through sweating.

Why It's Important?

The heatwave is severely affecting outdoor workers, farmers, and those in informal settlements who lack access to cooling. High humidity levels are intensifying health risks, including heatstroke and organ damage. Urban areas face additional challenges due to the heat island effect, while rural communities struggle with drought and limited healthcare access. The situation highlights the growing threat of climate change, with projections indicating that such heatwaves could become more frequent and severe in the coming decades.

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