Understanding the Perception of Heat: Why Delhi’s Climate Feels More Intense Than Recorded Temperatures

For weeks, Delhi has been grappling with an intense heatwave, with temperatures frequently exceeding 40°C. On Tuesday, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded a maximum temperature of 43.5°C. However, a recent investigation using a thermal camera revealed that surface temperatures in some areas soared to a staggering 64°C, highlighting the significant difference between air temperature and the heat felt on the ground.

Extreme Surface Temperatures Recorded

The IMD’s official temperature readings reflect air conditions measured under standard protocols, while thermal cameras capture the heat of surfaces. On particularly hot days, roads, concrete, and vehicles can absorb and radiate much higher temperatures than the surrounding air. This phenomenon can make urban environments feel significantly hotter, especially in areas lacking shade or greenery. During a field study conducted by Greenpeace India, researchers found that at the IIT flyover in south Delhi, surface temperatures reached 64°C in direct sunlight. In contrast, shaded areas recorded a much cooler 42°C. The difference in temperature illustrates how crucial shade can be in mitigating heat exposure.

Health Risks Associated with High Temperatures

Prolonged exposure to extreme heat poses serious health risks. Dr. A. Fathahudeen, a pulmonologist, warns that when the human body temperature exceeds 40°C, normal bodily functions can be disrupted. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include excessive sweating, headaches, and fatigue. In severe cases, individuals may experience confusion, seizures, or even organ failure if not treated promptly. To combat the heat, Dr. Fathahudeen advises people to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and seek shade whenever possible. He also emphasizes the need for government advisories to protect outdoor workers during peak heat hours.

Impact on Daily Life and Vulnerable Populations

Despite the extreme conditions, many street vendors in Delhi continue to work, often at great personal risk. Vendors like Sanjana Ben, who sells dry fruits, face unbearable heat while trying to earn a living. The thermal camera recorded temperatures of 51.4°C just inches from the ground where she sits. She described feeling dizzy and having blurred vision due to the heat. Similarly, Mohammad Mahfouz Alam, who sells footwear, expressed the toll the heat takes on his body and sleep. He noted that the changing climate has made summers more unpredictable, further complicating the lives of those who depend on outdoor work.

Living Conditions in the Heat

In neighborhoods like Sundar Nagri, residents are also feeling the effects of the heatwave. Abhishek and Kajal, siblings participating in a Greenpeace project, have been documenting how extreme temperatures impact their daily lives. Their home, lacking proper ventilation, recorded indoor temperatures around 40°C. Abhishek shared that the heat disrupts their routines, making it difficult to sleep and carry out daily chores. The oppressive heat forces them to adapt, with Abhishek noting that even small changes, like cutting his hair short or washing his face frequently, provide little relief. The struggle against the heat is a daily reality for many in Delhi, highlighting the urgent need for solutions to combat rising temperatures and protect vulnerable populations.

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