<h5>What’s a heatwave?</h5>  <p>A heatwave occurs when the temperature of a place rises about five to six degrees above the normal range. When this happens, the air temperature becomes dangerously hot, or sometimes even lethal for humans. </p>
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Summers in India are super-hot, to begin with! But the last few days have been anomalous. This is because India is going through a horrible heatwave that’s making life extremely difficult. In fact, around ten percent of the entire planet’s population is currently experiencing a heatwave.
</p> <h5>How bad is the heatwave in India?</h5>  <p>Before we talk about the current heatwave, here’s something else you should know. This year, India experienced its hottest March in 122 years. Since March 11th, less extreme (but no less unpleasant) heatwaves have been affecting 15 states and union territories across India. The worst affected states are Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
Given that March sucked so bad (heat-wise), it’s no surprise that April was painful. The five days between April 27th and May 1st were the hottest, with temperatures rising five to eight degrees higher than normal.
India’s demand for electricity also went up due to the heatwave since most people were using air-conditioners continuously. India generates most of its electricity using coal and the supply of coal couldn't keep up with the demand for electricity. Due to this, people all over the country had to face power cuts.</p>
<p>The silver lining is that the worst seems to be over!</p>
<p>After May 2nd, the temperatures are expected to dwindle. It’ll still be pretty hot in India. But it’ll be summer hot, not heatwave hot.
</p> <h5>Why is this happening?</h5>  <p>The same old nemesis, climate change. Scientists have been urging world leaders for a long time now to drastically change the way the world is being run. Human activities that require the use of fossil fuels like coal and petrol are at the centre of causing climate change.
India is one of the countries expected to be worst hit by climate change and heatwaves are set to become the new normal during summers.</p>
<p>Before you despair, know that the climate fight is stronger now than ever before. Most countries, including India, are working hard to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and switch to renewable energy. By the time you grow up, the world will be a far more environment-positive place than it is today.
</p> <h5>How can you protect yourself during this time?</h5>  <p>The India Meteorological Department lists a few ways we can keep ourselves safe from the heat. Make sure to keep drinking water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Avoid going out in the sun, especially between 12 noon and 3 pm. Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose clothes made from natural materials like cotton and linen.</p>
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If you have to go out in the sun, apply sunscreen before stepping out. Try using an umbrella and wear sunglasses, if possible.
</p> <h5>How can you help others during this time?</h5>  <p>Chances are that you’re spending the heatwave inside your home or school. Many others are not as lucky. If your house-help comes to work at your home after walking in the sun, make sure to offer them cold water. If you’re at school, avoid playing with your friends directly under the sun.
Keep some bowls of water out for street dogs and cats (can you imagine what they’re going through!?) Be sure to keep a bowl of water on your balcony or window to offer relief to birds.</p>
<p>Can you think of any other ways to help people/ animals during the heatwave?
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