India Among Top Countries for Heatwave Exposure, Lancet Report Reveals
India Among Top Countries for Heatwave Exposure, Lancet Report Reveals
IN · Published Oct 28, 2026
• A recent report from the Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change highlights India as one of the countries with the highest heatwave exposure for vulnerable groups, particularly infants and older adults.
• The report measures heatwave exposure in 'person-days,' which accounts for both the duration of heatwaves and the number of people affected.

Impact & Risks

The report underscores the heightened vulnerability of infants and older adults in India, who are more susceptible to heat-related health issues due to their lower physiological resilience. Older adults faced an average of 12.8 heatwave days per person in 2025, while infants experienced 8.7 days per person. The lack of adequate cooling infrastructure, especially in informal housing and rural areas, exacerbates the risks. Recurrent heat stress can lead to increased hospital admissions, strain on healthcare systems, and higher mortality rates. Without targeted interventions, these risks are expected to grow as climate change intensifies.

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