44°C Alert, Outdoor Workers & Kids At High Risk, Schools Take Action

India is witnessing an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 44°C and raising serious health concerns across cities, especially in the Delhi-NCR region. Health experts warn that outdoor workers—including construction laborers, street vendors, and delivery personnel—are the most vulnerable due to prolonged exposure, dehydration, and a lack of adequate rest or cooling facilities.

But the risk doesn’t stop there. Children are also bearing the brunt of extreme heat, with schools adjusting timings and reconsidering outdoor activities. Experts highlight that kids are more susceptible because their bodies heat up faster, and they often fail to recognize early symptoms of heat stress.

Parents are now demanding long-term solutions such as extended summer vacations, hybrid learning models, and improved school infrastructure to tackle rising temperatures linked to climate change.

This explainer breaks down why heatwaves are becoming more dangerous, who is most at risk, and what immediate and long-term measures are needed to prevent a public health crisis. From hydration plans to policy changes, here’s everything you need to know to stay safe during extreme heat conditions.