Study Reveals Unequal Effects of Heat Across Social Groups
Researchers Casper Ebbensgaard and Kavita Ramakrishnan from the University of East Anglia have shown that extreme heat does not affect all people in a city equally. They point out that official temperature readings fail to capture the real physical burden on residents. Their findings are especially relevant in light of the severe heat wave in Delhi in 2024, when temperatures approached 50 degrees Celsius. As heat waves become more frequent worldwide, this research underlines the urgency of understanding who is most at risk.
Key Factors That Shape Heat Tolerance
According to the study, income level, gender, occupation, and housing conditions all influence how well a person can withstand heat. Construction workers, street vendors, and seasonal laborers, who often have no choice but to work outside, were hit hardest. During the large-scale power outages in Delhi, many residents could not use fans or air conditioners, making nights dangerously hot as well. Outdoor workers were also more likely to face dehydration and heat exhaustion.
- income level
- gender
- occupation
- living conditions
'Urban planning still measures the heat in degrees, never in people.' Casper Ebbensgaard and Kavita Ramakrishnan
The authors stress that although the thermometer gives the same reading for everyone, the everyday conditions in which people experience that heat are vastly different. Their work reinforces the importance of making urban planning more socially aware, so that risks can be reduced for the most exposed communities.
The study highlights the need to weave social factors into climate adaptation policies, particularly in cities where high temperatures pose serious health threats. Taking the needs of vulnerable groups into account can lead to more effective support mechanisms and limit the health damage caused by extreme weather.