Health Risks from Rising Nighttime Temperatures in India
Lack of night cooling period poses risk to health: Experts

Image: Hindustan Times
Experts warn that rising nighttime temperatures, particularly in urban areas like Delhi, pose significant health risks, especially for vulnerable populations without air conditioning. A recent study highlights how warm nights disrupt the body's recovery processes, potentially leading to severe health issues such as heat exhaustion and increased chronic disease risks.
- 01Delhi recorded its warmest May night in 14 years at 31.9°C.
- 02A study found indoor temperatures in Chennai peaked between 8pm and 9pm, exacerbating health risks.
- 03Dr. Yogesh Jain emphasizes that warm nights prevent necessary body recovery, increasing risks of heat-related illnesses.
- 04Vulnerable groups, including the elderly and those with chronic conditions, are particularly at risk when nighttime temperatures exceed 24°C.
- 05India's 300 Heat Action Plans do not include indoor temperature monitoring, focusing instead on outdoor conditions.
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On Thursday, New Delhi experienced its warmest May night in 14 years, with temperatures reaching 31.9°C. Experts warn that such warm nights can pose serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations lacking air conditioning. A recent study by Climate Trends, conducted in Chennai, revealed that indoor temperatures peak not during the day but between 8pm and 9pm, as heat from concrete structures is released. This lack of nighttime cooling denies the body its recovery period, leading to health issues like heat exhaustion and exacerbating chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Dr. Yogesh Jain, a public health physician, noted that without proper cooling, the body's ability to regulate temperature diminishes, increasing the risk of severe health consequences. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly and pregnant women, are particularly affected when nighttime temperatures exceed 24°C. The findings indicate a significant gap in India's heat governance, as the country's 300 Heat Action Plans do not address indoor temperatures, leaving millions without adequate cooling options at night.
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The rising nighttime temperatures pose a significant health risk, especially for those without air conditioning, leading to potential increases in heat-related illnesses and chronic health issues.
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