Extreme Weather in India Linked to Rising Health Risks
Extreme Weather in India Linked to Rising Health Risks
IN · Published Nov 5, 2026
• Climate change is increasingly recognised as a public health concern in India, with extreme weather conditions such as heatwaves, shifting rainfall patterns, and rising night-time temperatures contributing to various health issues.
• Dr Divya Gopal from Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai highlights the impact of these changes on sleep quality, respiratory health, and the spread of infectious diseases.

Impact & Risks

The health effects of climate change disproportionately impact vulnerable groups such as the elderly, infants, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing conditions. Outdoor workers and underprivileged communities face heightened risks due to their exposure to extreme weather. Urban areas, with their heat island effect, experience higher temperatures, worsening the situation. Rising temperatures and humidity contribute to sleep deprivation, which can lead to high blood pressure and weakened immunity. Infectious diseases like dengue and cholera are becoming more widespread due to changing mosquito breeding patterns and water contamination during floods. Mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, are also on the rise due to climate-related disasters and displacement.

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