Heat Stress Thresholds for Indian Cities

11th August, 2021

Heat Stress Thresholds (HST) are important indicators of tolerance of the human body to heat stress. Beyond the threshold, an increase in morbidity and mortality is reported either directly due to increased heat load on the human body or the worsening of pre-existing illnesses. It is important to assess and determine HST at the local level to provide early warning and better preparedness of the community, administrators and associated stakeholders to manage heat health emergencies. In the absence of availability of data on direct impacts of high temperatures, the spikes in daily all-cause mortality, total hospital admissions or total medical emergency visits are generally taken as a proxy of the heat impact. The Threshold is assessed not only on the exposure to high temperatures but also on humidity, physical activity, wind, clothing and physique. This masterclass will provide an overview of HST and methodology to assess the HST of Indian cities.

South Asia Heat Health Information Network (SAHHIN), hosted by IRADe and supported by IDRC, Canada is pleased to invite you to its First Global Master Class on ‘Heat Stress Thresholds for Indian Cities’ by renowned expert Dr. S. C. Bhan, Scientist ‘F’, IMD on 11th August 2021, (4.30-5.30 pm IST).