HYDERABAD: Telangana's preparedness for an intense summer may be incomplete. The state's Heatwave Action Plan largely focuses on dry heat and overlooks risks from high humidity and wet-bulb temperatures.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a scorching summer this year. Scientists have also warned about dangerous wet-bulb temperatures on humid days. These conditions significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
However, the state's heatwave action plan considers only dry heat conditions. The IMD also does not issue alerts specifically based on wet-bulb temperatures, though experts see them as a key factor in heat stress, as reported by DC.
Limited official data
Hospitals usually maintain records of heat stroke or heat stress admissions individually. The state compiles only deaths caused by heat stroke.
"Typically, records of heat stroke or heat stress-related hospital admissions remain with individual hospitals. Only deaths due to heat stroke are recorded at the state level," said Ravindra Nayak.
Between 2012 and 2022, Telangana recorded 1,172 heatstroke deaths, according to official data. The state does not maintain consolidated data on people who suffer heat-related illness but survive.
Humidity increases heat stress
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"When the temperature is 35°C and the real feel is 40°C, humidity is increasing the discomfort," said Y. V. Rama Rao, now a consultant to the Telangana State Planning Development Society.
He said the wet-bulb temperature is an even more critical measure.
"For example, when the dry temperature is around 35°C and the wet-bulb temperature is about 25°C with high humidity, people must exercise more caution," he said.
Why wet-bulb temperature matters
Meteorologists record both dry-bulb and wet-bulb temperatures. The dry-bulb temperature reflects normal air temperature.
The wet-bulb temperature is measured with a wet cloth placed over the thermometer bulb. As the water evaporates, it creates a cooling effect. This reflects the combined impact of heat and humidity.
Experts say wet-bulb temperatures above 25°C cause discomfort. Levels between 31°C and 35°C can become dangerous, especially for people doing physical labour outdoors.
The state's Heatwave Action Plan cites data from the National Weather Service. The data shows how humidity amplifies heat.
For instance, when the air temperature is 34°C and relative humidity is 75%, the heat index can rise to 49°C.
The plan states that the human body starts gaining heat when environmental temperatures exceed 37°C. High humidity prevents sweat from evaporating. This blocks the body's natural cooling process and leads to heat stress.
According to Heatwatch, a wet-bulb temperature of 35°C can feel like exposure to 45°C.
Call for better monitoring
In its report Struck by Heat: A News Analysis of Heatstroke Deaths in India in 2025, Heatwatch said India's warning systems still focus mainly on dry temperatures.
"India does not have a comprehensive system to monitor or forecast wet-bulb temperatures," the report said.
Without accurate and localised warnings, millions remain exposed to dangerous heat stress. Outdoor workers and vulnerable populations face the highest risk.