Daily Current Affairs : 8-September-2023
In August, Iran experienced an extreme heatwave with a heat index soaring to a scorching 70°C. This unprecedented heat led to the declaration of public holidays to ensure people’s safety and well-being. But what exactly is the heat index, and why is it so important to consider during extreme weather conditions?
What is the Heat Index?
The heat index, also known as the apparent temperature, provides a measure of how hot it feels to humans. It takes into account not only the air temperature but also a critical factor: relative humidity. When humidity rises, the heat index can increase significantly, making the weather feel even hotter.
Dangers of High Heat Index
A heat index value of 67°C or higher can pose extreme dangers to people and animals exposed to such conditions for prolonged periods. It’s crucial to understand how this index is calculated to appreciate its significance.
Calculation of Heat Index
Dr. Robert Steadman introduced the formula to calculate the heat index in 1979. His research considered a key element: the dew point, set at 14°C. The dew point is the temperature at which air can no longer hold moisture, leading to the formation of water droplets. This factor plays a vital role in heat index calculations.
Humidity: A Crucial Factor
Humidity plays a pivotal role in shaping the heat index. As temperature rises, air’s capacity to hold moisture increases, affecting how hot it feels. During heatwaves, humidity levels tend to be higher, contributing to the elevated heat index values. This is why it often feels hotter than the recorded air temperature during such periods.
Impact of Humidity on the Human Body
Humans naturally maintain a core temperature between 36.1 to 37.2°C. When exposed to high temperatures, our bodies rely on sweating to release excess heat and cool down. However, high humidity poses a challenge. When the air is already saturated with moisture, sweat struggles to evaporate, making it challenging for our bodies to cool down efficiently. This can lead to heat-related health issues, including exhaustion, rashes, and even fatalities if not addressed promptly.
Conversely, during low humidity conditions, sweat evaporates more readily, bringing the apparent temperature closer to the actual air temperature.
Important Points:
- The heat index, or apparent temperature, measures how hot it feels to humans and is influenced by both air temperature and relative humidity.
- A heat index value of 67°C or higher can be extremely dangerous during prolonged exposure.
- Dr. Robert Steadman’s 1979 formula for calculating the heat index considers the crucial factor of the dew point (set at 14°C).
- Humidity plays a significant role in shaping the heat index, with higher humidity levels during heatwaves making it feel even hotter.
- High humidity impedes sweating and the body’s ability to cool down, leading to heat-related health issues such as exhaustion and rashes.
- Low humidity conditions allow sweat to evaporate more efficiently, making the apparent temperature closer to the actual air temperature.
- Climate change is likely to bring more record-breaking heat index values, necessitating early warning systems and sustainable cooling solutions.
- Understanding the heat index and its relation to humidity is vital for safeguarding human health during extreme heat events.
- Adaptation and proactive measures are crucial for staying safe in the face of changing climate conditions.
Why In News
In August, Iran endured an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures soaring to an astonishing 70°C on the heat index. This scorching weather forced authorities to declare public holidays as citizens grappled with the extreme heat.
MCQs about The Significance of the Heat Index
-
What is the primary factor used to calculate the heat index?
A) Air pressure
B) Relative humidity
C) Wind speed
D) Altitude
-
Why does the heat index often feel higher than the actual air temperature during heatwaves?
A) Increased cloud cover
B) Higher wind speeds
C) Elevated humidity levels
D) Reduced atmospheric pressure
-
What health issues can high humidity during extreme heat lead to?
A) Enhanced heat dissipation
B) Improved endurance
C) Difficulty in cooling the body
D) Decreased heart rate
-
How can societies prepare for extreme heat conditions exacerbated by climate change?
A) Implementing stricter water conservation measures
B) Reducing reliance on air conditioning
C) Investing in early warning systems and sustainable cooling solutions
D) Promoting outdoor activities during heatwaves
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
