Mumbai temperatures hit five-year high; heat-related ailments rise 10-20%

Delhi, Kolkata expect surge in heat-related emergencies

After the warmest winter ever experienced, the country, in line with the trend seen over the years, is bracing itself for a worsening summer situation, leading to heat-related illnesses. 

Several states, including the ones with big cities, are facing extreme weather conditions, increasing the number of heat-related emergencies. 

Mumbai is struggling with a 10-20 per cent rise in heat-related illnesses over the previous year as temperatures in the city soared to 41-43°C — the highest in five years. 

The intense heat has triggered a surge in cases of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, which has prompted hospitals to set up specialised units for rapid treatment and monitoring. 

The heatwave is affecting children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. 

Leading hospitals in Mumbai, including Fortis Hiranandani, Kokilaben, P D Hinduja, Holy Family, Jupiter, and Nanavati, have reported a significant rise in emergency admissions. 

Holy Family Hospital reported a 15-20 per cent rise in outpatient visits and a 10 per cent increase in emergency admissions for severe dehydration and heat stroke. 

“Children aged 3-15 years have been particularly vulnerable due to increased outdoor activities and a prolonged heat exposure,” said Anupama Sardana, medical superintendent. 

The hospital has established specialised emergency-treatment units handling cases of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These units are equipped with rapid cooling interventions, IV hydration therapy, and continuous monitoring. 

Farah Ingale, senior physician and diabetologist, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, reported a 10 per cent increase in heat-related cases compared to last month. “Inadequate fluid intake and an electrolyte imbalance can lead to a life-threatening heat stroke,” Ingale said. 

High fever (above 104°F), a rapid heartbeat, confusion, nausea, hot and dry skin, seizures or loss of consciousness are symptoms of a heat stroke, according to doctors. 

At P D Hinduja Hospital, there was a spike in patients with heat-related complications. 

“We’ve observed more cases of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, particularly among seniors and outdoor workers,” said Nilesh More, consultant internal medicine physician, Hinduja. 

He suggested residents stay indoors between 11 am and 4 pm, and wear light, breathable clothing. 

Beyond heat-related illnesses, hospitals have reported a surge in viral infections and typhoid cases due to contaminated food and water. 

B A Chaurasia, consultant at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, reported a 20-25 per cent increase in cases of fever over the past month, with over 50 per cent testing positive for typhoid. 

“We’ve seen a rise in cases of viral fever, stomach flu, and gastroenteritis,” Chaurasia said. 

At Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Hemalata Arora noted a 12–15 per cent rise in heat-related OPD (out-patient department) cases, along with frequent migraines and muscle aches. 

Amit Saraf, group quality head and director of internal medicine at Jupiter Hospital, said he treated three cases of severe dehydration in March. 

Cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Bengaluru are anticipating a surge in heat-related emergencies. 

CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, said while the city had not yet seen severe cases of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, Manisha Arora, director of internal medicine, said the sharp increase in temperature and humidity intensified the heat index, causing heat stress. 

“Many people are reporting muscle spasms and heat cramps, particularly those exposed to the sun during peak hours.”

Tanmay Banerjee, director of the Medical Institute of Critical Care and Internal Medicine at Medica Superspecialty Hospital, Kolkata, said though there were no cases of heat stroke, which typically occurs when temperatures exceed 40°C, the city could face more heat-related illnesses if the heat wave persisted. 

Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru, anticipates heat-related emergencies will increase. 

“Heat-related illnesses encompass a range of disorders, including heat syncope (exercise-associated collapse), heat cramps (painful muscle spasms), heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. These conditions can be severe and even life-threatening, emphasising the need for prompt medical attention and preventive measures.” 

Scholars in King’s College London, Harvard University, and Princeton University have predicted that without long-term heat-mitigation strategies, India could face a rise in heat-related fatalities in coming years. 

The report identified Mumbai, among nine major Indian cities, that was expected to experience substantial increases in heat-index values — which combine temperature and humidity — in the next decade. 

Merciless mercury

 

*  The heatwave is affecting children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions

 

*  Hospitals have also reported a surge in viral infections and typhoid cases due to contaminated food, water

 

*  Common symptoms identified by doctors: Heat stroke/high fever (above 104°F), rapid heartbeat, nausea, dry skin seizures or loss of consciousness