Contrary To Standard Heat Advisories, Indoor Heat A Danger To Poor Households

Analysing data from low-income homes across the subcontinent, a study by Watershed Organisation Trust (WOTR) found that indoor temperatures were often higher than outdoor temperatures in summer in both rural and urban areas. Although official heat advisories often tell people to stay indoors in peak summer, that advice may not work for poor households.

The research reveals that Indoor heat is often influenced by roofing material, with tin-roof homes seeing some of the highest temperatures. In rural Yavatmal in Maharashtra, for instance, tin-roof homes were 3-4 degrees C higher than outdoors. In Delhi, tin-roof homes were found to be almost 2 degrees warmer than outdoors.

Contrary to the general belief that one can suffer dehydration and heatstroke only if they expose themselves to the direct heat of the sun, it is seen that even those working inside the house are falling sick, developing severe dehydration and heatstroke. In fact medical experts say that indoor heatstroke can be as dangerous as outdoor sunstroke. Children, elderly and bed-ridden people are more vulnerable. Indoor heat stroke happens when the room temperature reaches around 40 degree Celsius and so does the individual’s body temperature whereas the ambient room temperature should be between 25 and 28 degree Celsius.

Experts reveal that if the rooms are small, closed or not properly ventilated, then the room temperature can even reach five-six degrees more than the outdoor temperature. It becomes a highly suffocating and dehydrating environment.