Climate experts and health specialists have warned that rising temperatures
May 26, 2026: India is facing a worsening heat emergency as temperatures across several northern states continue to rise beyond 44°C. Scientists and climate experts have warned that the country is nearing dangerous levels of heat stress, particularly in regions experiencing high humidity. Former WHO Chief Scientist Dr. Soumya Swaminathan urged the government to establish a dedicated national heat commission to coordinate emergency responses and long-term planning.
Swaminathan said extreme heat should no longer be viewed as a seasonal problem but as a major public health and economic challenge. She warned that humid heat poses a greater danger because the human body struggles to cool itself effectively through sweating. She also stressed the need for geography-specific heatwave definitions, stronger warning systems, and public awareness campaigns to protect vulnerable populations from heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke.
Several states including Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh are currently witnessing severe heatwave conditions, with temperatures ranging from 43°C to 46°C. Experts have also raised concerns over rising electricity demand, pressure on power grids and risks faced by outdoor workers. Climate analyst Bruno Brezenski cautioned that unchecked global warming could push parts of India beyond safe survival thresholds, though some of his viral claims regarding exact human survival limits remain scientifically disputed.