UPSC CSE Prelims
Climate Change Impacts Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Detailed Explanation:

Correct Answer: ✅ Option 3 (Both I and II)

Wet-bulb temperature combines air temperature and humidity. A wet-bulb temperature of 35°C is considered a critical threshold because the human body can no longer cool itself effectively through sweating. The World Bank has warned that parts of India could face dangerous heat stress conditions due to climate change.

✅ Statement I is Correct: Rising temperatures and climate change are expected to increase the frequency and intensity of floods, tropical cyclones, droughts, and other extreme weather events, particularly affecting Peninsular India.

✅ Statement II is Correct: At a wet-bulb temperature of 35°C, sweat cannot evaporate efficiently. As a result, humans and animals are unable to release body heat, creating life-threatening conditions.

Short Notes: Wet-Bulb Temperature

• Wet-bulb temperature combines heat and humidity into a single measure.

• A wet-bulb temperature of 35°C is considered the upper limit of human survivability for prolonged exposure.

• High humidity reduces the effectiveness of evaporative cooling (sweating).

• Climate change is increasing the frequency of extreme heat events.

• India is considered one of the most vulnerable countries to heat stress.

• Wet-bulb temperature is often used to assess human health risks during heatwaves.

• Heat stress can affect agriculture, labor productivity, livestock, and public health.