‘October heat’ is here. How does it affect your health? How can you stay safe?

Just as you begin to settle into the idea of cooler days and refreshing autumn breezes, October heat rolls in, making it feel like summer isn’t done yet.

With unseasonably high temperatures and lingering humidity, this distinctive weather phenomenon follows the rainy season, particularly in tropical regions like India.

Unlike the dry heat of summer, October heat can be more than just a nuisance. The lingering humidity makes it a serious health hazard, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses as people struggle to stay cool.

Here’s how this sneaky October heat can affect your well-being and what you can do to stay safe.

What leads to October heat?

October heat is characterised by an unusual spike in temperatures after the monsoon season, affecting areas like North India, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.

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Dr. Aabid Amin, medical director at Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, explained to The Indian Express, “This creates an oppressive and uncomfortable climate, making it notably different from the dry summer heat."

Usually, the southwest monsoon plays a key role in bringing relief with cooler winds, but as it retreats, the westerly winds that typically help keep temperatures in check begin to weaken. Experts quoted by The Times of India said that the weakening of these winds causes the temperatures to rise and humidity to linger, particularly in coastal cities like Mumbai, leading to discomfort.

Urban areas face an even greater challenge due to the urban heat island effect. Concrete and asphalt absorb heat during the day and release it slowly, keeping metro cities like Mumbai hotter than surrounding rural areas.

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For instance, temperatures in the city often rise to between 30 and 35 degree Celsisus in the first week of October. Recently, Indian Meteorological Department’s Santacruz station recorded 33.5 degree Celsisus, 1.2 degree Celsisus above normal, with humidity levels spiking to 90 per cent.

Pune, too, faces the impact of October heat, worsened by clear skies and moisture in the air.

How does it impact your health?

October heat can significantly strain the body’s ability to cool itself, leading to a range of health issues. Dr Aabid Amin explained to The Indian Express that this period can lead to a range of health issues including dehydration, headaches, giddiness, and respiratory problems.

“High humidity,” he added, “can worsen conditions like asthma by making it harder for the body to regulate temperature.”

Soaring temperatures can also weaken the immune system, making people more vulnerable to viral infections like the common cold.

Additionally, exposure to hotter-than-average conditions compromises the body’s ability to adjust temperature leading to a cascade of illnesses such as heat cramps, exhaustion, and even heatstroke. The humid weather further promotes the spread of bacteria and viruses, increasing the risk of skin infections.

Dr Amin also stressed that vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, people with existing medical conditions, and outdoor workers are particularly at risk. “Prolonged exposure to this heat can result in a medical emergency requiring immediate attention,” he said.

How to stay safe?

To avoid the ill effects of the October heat, it’s important to stay indoors during peak heat hours.

“Try to avoid going outside during the hottest hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm, and keep your indoor environment cool using fans or air conditioning,” Dr Amin advised.

Pratiksha Kadam, Consultant, Dietetics and Nutrition, advised in a The Hindustan Times report to drink plenty of water throughout the day to ensure hydration. He also advises to avoid alcoholic beverages.

“Despite being enjoyable, cold drinks contribute significantly to dehydration because of their high sugar content. Drinks with alcohol, as well as hot or sweet beverages like tea and coffee, have the potential to severely dehydrate the body.

“Having small, cold meals that are high in water content, like salads and fruit, is a way to balance this. In addition to being a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, fruits and vegetables also hydrate your body,” she added.

One can also take frequent cool showers or sponge baths to lower body temperature and wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing to keep cool.

With input from agencies