Deadly Heat Endangers 1Billion Lives and Stalls Economic Growth in India
India is at risk of devastating consequences from extreme heat waves, according to new research from Cambridge University. Last year, temperatures reached 15 degrees Fahrenheit above normal, causing dozens of deaths, wildfires, and food shortages, and leaving 90% of the population vulnerable to health risks. However, the government has been accused of underestimating the threat by relying on a climate vulnerability assessment that does not take account of longer and more intense heat waves. The study warned that heat waves could cost India 8.7% of its GDP by the end of the century and cut the capacity for outdoor work by 15% by 2030.
