An intense heatwave has been wreaking havoc in Delhi, leading to numerous casualties and overwhelming hospitals with heat-related illnesses. Temperatures have consistently ranged between 45 to 46 degrees Celsius over the past month, causing severe health issues among residents. A some locations it has touched above 50 degrees Celsius.

At Safdarjung Hospital, 14 patients have died due to heat-related illnesses in the last 24 hours. A senior hospital official reported that out of 33 patients admitted to the emergency department for heat-related issues, 13 succumbed, marking a 40% mortality rate for such cases.

Other hospitals in Delhi are also witnessing a surge in heat-related emergencies. An anonymous senior official at a government hospital in East Delhi disclosed that 25 patients were brought in dead over the past 24 hours, attributing these deaths to the ongoing heatwave. The official noted a significant increase in patients suffering from heat stroke, with many presenting high-grade fever.

Heat stroke, a severe form of heat injury, is considered a medical emergency that can be fatal or cause serious damage to the brain and other internal organs. While it predominantly affects people over 50, it can also impact healthy young individuals, including athletes. Heat stroke typically results from prolonged exposure to high temperatures and dehydration, leading to the failure of the body's temperature regulation system.

Symptoms of heat stroke include a core body temperature above 104°F, throbbing headache, dizziness, lack of sweating, red and dry skin, muscle weakness or cramps, nausea, rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, confusion, seizures, and unconsciousness. Immediate medical attention is crucial for anyone exhibiting these symptoms.