India’s severe heatwaves in 2024 are believed to have exacerbated toxic ground-level ozone concentrations, potentially leading to a significant number of deaths. A new study spearheaded by IIT Kharagpur has found a strong link between these extreme temperatures and increased ozone exposure.
The research indicates that the intensified heatwaves contributed to over 26,500 deaths primarily from ischaemic heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This highlights a critical public health consequence of rising global temperatures and their impact on air quality.
According to the study, ozone levels across India frequently surpassed the World Health Organization’s recommended limits. Specific areas identified as hotspots for these elevated ozone concentrations include north-west India and the expansive Indo-Gangetic Plain. These regions experienced particularly concerning air quality conditions during the heatwave periods.
Source: Down To Earth