How Climate Change is Worsening Summer Conditions in India

Introduction

Climate change is having a big impact on weather patterns and environmental conditions globally, with India being equally vulnerable. The intensifying effects of climate change are worsening summer conditions across the country, leading to numerous adverse consequences. This escalation in summer severity is evident through various changes observed in recent years, such as the extreme heat wave in 2022, where temperatures in parts of North India soared to unprecedented levels, affecting millions of people. This summer also, India has experienced a significant number of deaths due to extreme heat. Climate change is causing impacts at all levels.

Increased Heat waves

Climate change has led to a significant rise in the frequency and intensity of heat waves across India, making summers hotter and more prolonged.

Example: In the summer of 2019, India experienced one of its most severe heat waves, with temperatures in several states, including Rajasthan and Maharashtra, exceeding 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit). This extreme heat resulted in hundreds of deaths and widespread health issues.

Higher Average Temperatures

Average summer temperatures have risen due to global warming, leading to more extreme and sustained periods of high heat.

Example: Over the past decade, cities like Delhi and Kolkata have seen a consistent increase in average summer temperatures. For instance, Delhi's average summer temperature has risen by approximately 2 degrees Celsius compared to historical averages.

Water Scarcity

Higher temperatures increase evaporation rates, reducing water levels in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, exacerbating water shortages during the crucial summer months.

Example: In 2016, Latur in Maharashtra faced a severe water crisis during the summer, leading to the deployment of water trains to supply the drought-stricken area. The crisis was exacerbated by higher temperatures increasing evaporation rates.

Agricultural Impact

The rise in temperature affects crop yields, with heat stress damaging crops and reducing productivity, impacting food security and farmer livelihoods.

Example: The 2021 heat wave in Punjab and Haryana led to significant damage to wheat crops due to heat stress, resulting in lower yields and financial losses for farmers.

Health Risks

Increased heat waves and higher temperatures contribute to a rise in heat-related illnesses such as heat strokes, dehydration, and exacerbate chronic conditions, posing significant public health challenges.

Example: During the 2015 heat wave, over 2,500 people died across India due to heat-related illnesses. Cities like Hyderabad and Ahmedabad were particularly affected, with hospitals overwhelmed by patients suffering from heat strokes and dehydration.

Urban Heat Islands

Climate change amplifies the urban heat island effect, where cities experience higher temperatures than rural areas due to dense infrastructure and reduced vegetation, leading to more discomfort and health issues for urban residents.

Example: Mumbai has seen a marked increase in temperatures due to the urban heat island effect. Dense construction and lack of green spaces have resulted in nighttime temperatures staying uncomfortably high, affecting residents' health and comfort.

Monsoon Variability

Climate change affects the timing and intensity of the Indian monsoon, leading to unpredictable rainfall patterns. This can result in either extended dry periods during summer or sudden, intense rainfall causing flash floods.

Example: In 2019, Kerala experienced an unusually late monsoon, followed by intense rainfall that caused severe flooding. Conversely, other parts of India, like Bihar, faced extended dry periods and drought conditions during the same monsoon season.

Increased Energy Demand

The need for cooling increases with rising temperatures, leading to higher energy consumption and putting a strain on the power supply infrastructure, often resulting in power outages.

Example: The summer of 2018 saw a significant spike in electricity demand in Chennai, leading to frequent power outages as the grid struggled to cope with the increased load from air conditioning units and cooling systems.

Wildfires

Higher temperatures and prolonged dry spells increase the risk of wildfires, which can devastate forests, wildlife, and agricultural land, further degrading the environment.

Example: In 2020, Uttarakhand witnessed numerous wildfires during the summer months, destroying vast areas of forest, affecting wildlife, and causing air quality to plummet in surrounding regions.

Ecosystem Disruption

Climate change disrupts natural ecosystems, affecting flora and fauna. Species that cannot adapt to the heat may face higher mortality rates, leading to biodiversity loss.

Example: The Thar Desert has been experiencing more intense and prolonged heat periods, impacting native species such as the Great Indian Bustard, which faces increased mortality rates due to the harsh conditions.

Economic Costs

The combined impact of heat waves, water scarcity, agricultural losses, and health issues results in significant economic costs, burdening both the national economy and individual livelihoods.

Example: The combined effect of the 2019 heat wave and subsequent drought in Maharashtra resulted in estimated economic losses of over $5 billion, affecting agriculture, health, and infrastructure sectors.

Conclusions

The escalating effects of climate change are worsening the summer conditions in India, creating a cascade of challenges that affect every aspect of life. From increased heat waves and higher average temperatures to water scarcity and agricultural impacts, the repercussions are wide-ranging and severe. The health risks, urban heat islands, and monsoon variability further complicate the scenario, straining resources and infrastructure. Additionally, the rise in wildfires, ecosystem disruptions, and economic costs underscore the urgent need for comprehensive climate action.

As these examples illustrate, addressing climate change is not just an environmental imperative but a crucial step towards ensuring the health, safety, and prosperity of India's population. Immediate and sustained efforts to mitigate climate change and adapt to its impacts are essential to safeguard the future of the nation and its people.