Warmer Nights are a Public-Health Challenge
Context
Increasing night-time temperatures due to climate change are emerging as a major public-health concern, especially for vulnerable groups.
Key Highlights
- Warm nights prevent the body from recovering from daytime thermal stress.
- Elderly persons, children, outdoor workers and low-income households are highly vulnerable.
- Existing heat-action plans focus mainly on daytime heat emergencies.
- Long-term adaptation measures are required to address night-time heat stress.
Key Facts
- Night-time heat stress increases risks of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
- Urban Heat Island Effect keeps cities warmer during nights.
- Climate change is intensifying heatwaves across South Asia.
- Heat-related mortality is often underreported.
- NDMA has issued guidelines for heatwave preparedness and awareness.
