Maharashtra is reeling under an intense heatwave, with 12 heatstroke deaths reported on Tuesday alone, pushing the cumulative toll to 67 till April 28. Nandurbar has emerged as the worst-affected district, accounting for 15 cases.
State health department data shows Nandurbar reported the highest cases (15), followed by Nashik (7) and Gadchiroli (6). Parbhani and Ratnagiri reported four cases each, while most districts logged one to two cases, indicating a scattered but statewide impact.
Expert Speak
Dr Digvijay Shinde, MD Medicine, told mid-day, “Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency that occurs when the body’s temperature rises above 40 degrees Celsius, overwhelming its cooling system.” He added, “There are two types — classic heatstroke from prolonged heat exposure, common among the elderly and those with illnesses, and exertional heatstroke seen in younger individuals due to intense physical activity.” Dr Shinde noted dehydration, alcohol intake, and heat-trapping clothing increase risk.
Symptoms and response
Common symptoms include severe headache, very high temperature, confusion, abnormal sweating, nausea, rapid breathing, and increased heart rate. “If symptoms appear, act immediately — shift to a cool place, remove excess clothing, start cooling, and seek urgent medical care,” Dr Shinde said.
Heatstroke
Do’s
>> Drink water regularly, even if not thirsty
>> Eat light, fresh food like fruits and salads before stepping out
>> Wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothes
>> Cover your head with a cap, cloth, or umbrella in the sun
>> Plan outdoor work during cooler hours (morning/evening)
Dr Digvijay Shinde, MD Medicine
Don’ts
>> Do not step out on an empty stomach in extreme heat
>> Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight
>> Avoid going out between 12 pm and 3 pm
>> Do not walk barefoot outdoors
>> Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles
Source: Pune District Bureau