Delhi under yellow alert, temperature crosses 40 degree Celsius: Tips to stay safe

Delhi recorded its first heatwave of the season on Monday, April 7, with the maximum temperature touching 40.2 degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department's (IMD) has currently put the city under a yellow alert, which will remain in place till Wednesday. As per IMD, a yellow alert stands for "be aware".

How does high heatwave affect health?
With temperatures soaring during summer, heatwaves have become increasingly common and severe—especially in regions prone to extreme heat. One of the most serious health risks associated with such weather conditions is heatstroke, also known as heat stress. It occurs when the body’s internal temperature regulation fails, causing the core temperature to rise dangerously above 104°F (40°C).

Heatstroke is a medical emergency and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. It often develops after prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially during physical activity, or due to dehydration, which limits the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating.

Common symptoms of heatstroke are:

• High body temperature: A core body temperature above 104°F is the key sign.
• Hot, dry, or flushed skin: Sweating may stop, leaving the skin hot and red.
• Fainting or dizziness: A drop in blood pressure can cause lightheadedness.
• Muscle cramps: Especially in the legs or abdomen, due to loss of electrolytes.
• Nausea and vomiting: The digestive system may get affected due to overheating.
• Shortness of breath and rapid heartbeat: As the body struggles to cool down.
• Confusion, irritability, or disorientation: Heat affects brain function.
• Seizures or unconsciousness: In severe cases, neurological symptoms escalate quickly.

See more: IMD heatwave alert: Delhi braces for scorching heatwave as temperatures soar

Delhi government has issued health advisory
In view of the heatwave alert, the Delhi health department has issued an advisory and has warned that extreme hot weather, or loo, can lead to severe health complications, especially among the vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant women, the elderly, those working outdoors, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.

People have been urged to carry water while going outdoors and use safe drinking water sources such as boiled or RO-filtered water.

Consumption of seasonal fruits and vegetables that have high water content -- such as watermelon, cucumber, oranges, lemons and tomatoes -- has been encouraged to maintain hydration levels and replenish essential nutrients, as per the advisory.

The government has emphasised that high-protein and spicy foods, as well as beverages like tea, coffee, alcohol and carbonated drinks, should be avoided, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Those living in urban slums and poorly-ventilated homes have been urged to take additional care, with focus on maintaining cleanliness, hydration and proper ventilation.

To raise public awareness, the advisory has proposed to instal digital information boards displaying real-time temperature updates and health tips.

It said for people working in construction, agriculture or similar outdoor jobs, the government has recommended shifting work hours to early morning or late evening to avoid exposure to extreme heat. It also encouraged the creation of temporary shelters and the adoption of a "buddy system", where workers look out for one another and report early signs of heat-related illnesses.