Delhi Schools Close Early Due to Extreme Heat reaching 47.4°C | Prioritizing the Safety of Students and Staff

Delhi Schools Close Early Due to Extreme Heat reaching 47.4°C | Prioritizing the Safety of Students and Staff

Introduction: Record High Temperatures Force School Closures:

In response to scorching temperatures reaching 47.4°C (117°F) in Delhi, city officials have mandated the early closure of schools. This unprecedented heatwave has led authorities to cut the school term short, prioritizing the safety of students and staff.

Severe Heatwave Conditions Expected:

India’s weather bureau has issued warnings about severe heatwave conditions, with Delhi's Najafgarh suburb recording the highest temperature nationwide. The extreme heat has also prompted similar school closures in other states including Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan.

The Impact of Climate Change:

Scientific research indicates that climate change is exacerbating the frequency, duration, and intensity of heatwaves in India. The Indian Meteorological Department has highlighted the health risks posed by these extreme temperatures, particularly to vulnerable populations such as infants, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.

Historical Temperature Records:

Delhi experienced even higher temperatures in May 2022, reaching 49.2°C (120.5°F). This historical context underscores the increasing severity of heatwaves in the region.

Election Turnout Affected by Heat:

The ongoing heatwave is also impacting the six-week-long election process in India. Lower voter turnout has been observed, with analysts attributing this decline to the oppressive heat as well as the expectation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s likely third-term victory. The election commission is now reviewing the effects of heatwaves on voter participation.

Weather Extremes Across India:

While Delhi faces extreme heat, southern states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala have been battered by heavy rains. Additionally, severe storms recently hit Mumbai, resulting in casualties and significant damage.

Disparities in Heat Exposure:

Areas with more greenery, such as Khan Market, recorded lower temperatures compared to densely built-up areas like Lajpat Nagar and Nehru Place, which saw temperatures soar as high as 59°C. This disparity highlights the cooling effect of green spaces in urban environments.

Outdoor Workers at High Risk:

Greenpeace India emphasizes that heatwaves disproportionately affect marginalized communities, especially outdoor workers. These individuals face severe health risks due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures.

Proposals for Mitigation and Adaptation:

Experts advocate for climate governance strategies to mitigate heatwave impacts. Suggested measures include increasing urban green cover, providing water facilities, and establishing cooling stations. 

Ongoing studies aim to collect real-time data on the health impacts of heat exposure on street vendors, informing future adaptation plans.

Conclusion:

Delhi’s early school closures due to record-breaking heatwaves highlight the urgent need for comprehensive climate action. The intensifying heat, driven by climate change, poses significant health and socioeconomic risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. 

Effective mitigation and adaptation strategies, such as increasing green spaces and establishing cooling stations, are crucial to protecting communities from the growing threat of extreme temperatures.

Content Image Source Courtesy:

https://www.theguardian.com