New Delhi: As the heat wave continues to batter most parts of India, the annual period known as Nautapa has once again become a major concern for public health experts and weather observers. Traditionally considered the hottest phase of the Indian summer, Nautapa is expected to further spike temperatures across several northern and central parts of the country this year.
Daytime temperatures in regions including Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh have already crossed 46°C, while some areas even approached 48°C. Hot winds, known locally as loo, along with warm nights and dry conditions, are significantly affecting daily life and health.
What is Nautapa?
Nautapa refers to a nine-day period that begins when the sun enters Rohini Nakshatra, usually during late May. Experts say Nautapa even has deep roots in India’s agricultural traditions, as celestial movements and seasonal shifts help with the farmers calculate rainfall arrival. Over generations, communities have observed links between extreme summer heat and monsoon behaviour, giving Nautapa cultural and seasonal importance in traditional Indian weather knowledge.
While many people associate heatwaves with outdoor discomfort, doctors warn that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can place serious stress on the human body. The body normally cools itself through sweating. However, during prolonged heat exposure – especially when humidity is high, this cooling system can become overwhelmed.
Doctors say extreme heat can affect your body temperature regulation, hydration levels, sleep quality, heart function, breathing patterns, and mental focus and productivity. Those working outdoors for long hours face an especially high risk.
Health risks linked to Nautapa heat
Doctors warn that heatwaves during Nautapa may increase the risk of several heat-related illnesses, including:
Heat exhaustion
Symptoms include excessive sweating, dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, and muscle cramps.
Heatstroke
A medical emergency where body temperature rises dangerously high. Warning signs include confusion, fainting, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty breathing.
Exposure to constantly high temperatures can lead to a medical emergency where body temperature rises dangerously highExposure to constantly high temperatures can lead to a medical emergency where body temperature rises dangerously high
Dehydration
Excessive sweating can quickly reduce body fluids and electrolytes, especially in children and elderly people.
Sleep disturbance and fatigue
Warm nights prevent the body from cooling properly, leading to poor sleep and exhaustion.
Breathing difficulties
Hot, dry winds and dust exposure can worsen asthma, allergies, and respiratory conditions.
Certain groups face a higher risk during Nautapa, including elderly individuals, children, pregnant women, outdoor workers, people with diabetes or heart disease, and those without proper access to cooling or proper hydration. Urban areas may become especially dangerous due to the “heat island effect,” where concrete buildings and roads trap heat throughout the night.
How to stay safe during Nautapa?
Doctors recommend taking preventive measures seriously during extreme heat periods. You must make sure to drink water regularly, even if not thirsty, avoid direct sunlight between 12 pm and 4 pm, wear loose cotton clothing, use umbrellas or caps, avoid strenuous physical activity during peak heat, eat light meals and seasonal fruits, never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles and closely watch for signs of dizziness or confusion.
Climate change is making Indian heatwaves more frequent, longer, and more intense. While Nautapa has traditionally been viewed as part of India’s summer cycle, rising temperatures are increasing the health risks associated with extreme heat exposure. Understanding the dangers of prolonged heat and recognising early symptoms of heat-related illness may help prevent serious complications during this year’s Nautapa.
