A heatwave in Asia affects the 10% of Earth’s population

Since mid-March 2022, eastern parts of the Middle East and India have experienced a prolonged period of high temperatures, often exceeding 45ºC. Even though these values are not record-high in most areas, the long-lasting effects of such a heatwave are significant. About 1 billion people experience extreme heat stress, either by very high temperatures or by the combination of high temperatures and high humidity. 

Especially Pakistan and India report the highest temperatures, and forecasts on Wednesday 27 April 2022 show even higher temperatures at the beginning of May. The first map shows the D4Weather forecast for the daily maximum temperature at 2m height on Thursday 28 April 2022, reaching 48°C in Pakistan and in India.

If we combine information for humidity, wind, and solar radiation, we can compute the D4Weather Heat Stress Index that shows a different distribution of heat-highlighted areas in the following map. This index provides a metric for the heat stress that humans experience during a heat wave. The coastal areas often acquire high values due to high levels of humidity, but winds close to the sea (e.g. sea breeze) also play a role in reducing the feeling of heat stress. According to the D4Weather Heat Stress Index, the population in eastern India and Bangladesh will experience higher heat stress than the areas with up to 48ºC in western India and Pakistan. 

Do you want to learn more about the D4Weather Heat Stress Index? 

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