In April 2025, Pune experienced extreme heat conditions that significantly impacted the elderly population, as scientists observed that core body temperatures in seniors were unable to regulate during prolonged periods.​

🔥 Extreme Heat Conditions in April

Pune recorded some of its highest temperatures in recent history during April 2025. On March 24, Koregaon Park reached a scorching 40.9°C, making it the hottest city in Maharashtra at that time . Subsequent days saw temperatures exceeding 40°C in areas like Lohegaon and Koregaon Park . The city also experienced higher-than-normal nighttime temperatures, with some areas recording minimums of 27–28°C .​

👵 Impact on the Elderly

The elderly are particularly vulnerable to heat stress due to physiological factors such as reduced sweat response and impaired thermoregulation. Extended exposure to high temperatures can lead to serious health issues like heat stroke and dehydration. In Pune, the prolonged heat wave in April likely exacerbated these risks for senior citizens.

🌡️ Factors Contributing to the Heatwave

Several factors contributed to the extreme heat in Pune:​

Urban Heat Island Effect: The city's rapid urbanization and increased concrete surfaces trap heat, leading to higher temperatures, especially at night .​

Climate Change: Global warming has led to more frequent and intense heatwaves, with early-season heat becoming more common .​

Meteorological Conditions: Factors such as dry soil, lack of pre-monsoon showers, and the influence of El Niño contributed to the rise in temperatures .​

🧠 Scientific Observations

Researchers have noted that during heatwaves, the elderly's ability to regulate core body temperature diminishes, leading to prolonged periods of heat stress. This condition is particularly dangerous as it can result in heat-related illnesses if not managed promptly.​

🛡️ Recommendations for Protection

To safeguard the elderly during extreme heat:

Stay Hydrated: Encourage regular water intake to prevent dehydration.​

Avoid Peak Heat Hours: Limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.​

Use Cooling Measures: Employ fans, air conditioning, or cool baths to lower body temperature.​

Wear Appropriate Clothing: Light-colored, loose-fitting clothes can help keep the body cool.​

Monitor Health: Regularly check for signs of heat-related illnesses, such as dizziness or confusion.​

Given the increasing frequency of such heat events, it's crucial to implement community awareness programs and infrastructure improvements to protect vulnerable populations, especially the elderly, from the adverse effects of extreme heat.