Europe’s prolonged summer heat is increasingly turning into an economic challenge, disrupting river transport, electricity generation, agriculture and tourism while raising concerns over food and energy costs.

Five heatwaves have swept across Europe this summer, with record temperatures, prolonged drought and wildfires putting pressure on critical infrastructure and businesses.

Dutch bank Triodos estimates that extreme heat could cost the European Union around €180 billion (approximately $208 billion) in 2026, equivalent to about 1 per cent of the bloc’s GDP. The estimate comes as the EU is expected to grow by only around 1.1 per cent this year.

The impact is particularly significant as Europe is already dealing with high energy costs, weak industrial activity, US tariffs and growing competition from China.

Rhine Disrupts German Industry

The Rhine has emerged as one of the clearest examples of how extreme weather is affecting Europe’s economy.

The river is a major transport corridor for Germany, carrying chemicals, fuels, raw materials and other industrial products. But prolonged drought has pushed water levels lower, forcing barges to reduce their loads.

Some companies are shifting shipments from waterways to road and rail, increasing transportation costs and creating additional pressure on industrial supply chains.

The Rhine is not alone. Other major European waterways, including parts of the Danube, are also experiencing low water levels after months of limited rainfall.

Nuclear Power Faces Cooling Problems

Europe’s electricity sector is facing another unusual consequence of extreme heat: inadequate cooling water for nuclear power plants.

France generates more than two-thirds of its electricity from nuclear power. Several of its reactors rely on river water for cooling, leaving them vulnerable when river temperatures become too high or water levels fall.

EDF expected up to 15 per cent of its nuclear fleet to be offline during the latest heatwave.

Romania has faced similar difficulties. Nuclearelectrica began disconnecting its sole operational reactor at the Cernavoda nuclear plant after the Danube reached critically low levels. The country has also declared an energy emergency for August and urged households and businesses to voluntarily reduce electricity consumption.

Hungary’s Paks nuclear plant has also reduced output because of high temperatures and low Danube water levels.

Electricity Demand Moves Higher

The heatwave is creating pressure on both sides of Europe’s power market.

As temperatures rise, households, offices, shops and factories increase their use of air conditioning and other cooling systems. Electricity demand therefore rises at the same time that some nuclear and hydropower facilities face difficulties maintaining normal output.

French electricity prices have risen as traders anticipated reduced nuclear generation.

If nuclear and hydropower output remains constrained, European countries may need to depend more heavily on gas-fired power plants or electricity imports. This could keep power prices elevated and increase operating costs for energy-intensive industries.

Gas Storage Faces Pressure

The heatwave also comes at a difficult time for Europe’s energy security.

European gas storage levels are relatively low for this point in the year, while geopolitical tensions have contributed to uncertainty around LNG supplies.

Higher electricity demand during the summer could increase gas consumption if nuclear generation falls. That could make it more expensive for European countries to refill storage facilities ahead of winter.

The immediate concern is not necessarily a shortage of gas, but the possibility that rebuilding reserves will become more expensive.

Higher energy procurement costs could eventually affect electricity and heating bills for households while increasing expenses for businesses.

Agriculture Takes Major Hit

Agriculture is among the sectors facing the most direct damage from extreme heat and drought.

High temperatures are reducing soil moisture, stressing crops and accelerating harvesting. European agricultural monitoring has reported growing stress in several summer crops, while production estimates for crops such as maize and sunflower have been reduced.

The effects can spread across the food supply chain.

Lower cereal production can increase the cost of animal feed, raising expenses for meat, dairy and egg producers. A weaker harvest could also increase Europe’s dependence on imports.

If several agricultural regions experience poor harvests simultaneously, global supplies could tighten, potentially pushing food prices higher.

Southern Europe Under Pressure

Southern European economies are particularly exposed because agriculture, tourism and outdoor employment play an important role in countries such as Italy, Spain and Greece.

Prolonged heat and drought are affecting crops including cereals, tomatoes, grapes and olives.

Tourism could also face a longer-term impact. Temperatures approaching or exceeding 40°C can make sightseeing and outdoor activities difficult, potentially encouraging tourists to shift their holidays towards spring or autumn.

Such a change could affect traditional summer tourism patterns in southern Europe while creating opportunities for cooler destinations in northern Europe.

Workers Lose Productive Hours

Extreme heat is also affecting labour productivity.

Construction workers, agricultural labourers, logistics employees and others who work outdoors face particularly difficult conditions. Businesses may need to introduce longer breaks or shorter working hours during the hottest part of the day.

Farmers in parts of Europe have already adjusted their schedules to work during cooler early-morning hours.

While such measures allow operations to continue, they can increase labour and operating costs. Across the broader economy, fewer productive working hours can translate into lower overall output.

Wildfires Add Economic Costs

Drought and high temperatures have also increased wildfire risks across southern Europe.

Spain has been among the countries badly affected, with large areas damaged by fires, according to EU Copernicus monitoring.

Wildfires create immediate costs through firefighting, evacuations and emergency response. They also cause longer-term damage to homes, farms, forests and infrastructure.

Transport and tourism can be disrupted, while governments and insurers face additional financial liabilities.

For European governments already dealing with pressure on public finances, repeated climate-related emergencies could mean higher spending at a time when budgets are also being stretched by defence, energy security and the green transition.

€180 Billion Warning

The estimated €180-billion economic impact highlights how extreme weather can develop into a broader macroeconomic problem.

Lower labour productivity is expected to account for a significant share of the economic losses, followed by agriculture, energy and transport.

The costs could continue even after temperatures return to normal.

Businesses may have to invest in cooling systems, alternative transport arrangements and climate-resilient infrastructure. Governments may need to strengthen power grids, water networks and emergency-response systems, while farmers could require new irrigation methods and more heat-resistant crops.

The European Commission has estimated that EU countries may need to spend around €70 billion annually through 2050 on climate adaptation.

Europe Faces a Long-Term Challenge

The summer heatwave has demonstrated how extreme weather can trigger disruptions across several parts of an economy simultaneously.

Low water levels are affecting the Rhine and Danube. Nuclear plants face cooling constraints. Electricity demand is rising. Farmers are confronting crop stress. Workers are losing productive hours, while wildfires are increasing costs for governments, insurers and businesses.

Ultimately, these pressures can reach consumers through higher food, energy and transport costs.

For Europe, the challenge is no longer simply dealing with individual days of extreme heat. It is preparing infrastructure, businesses and public finances for a climate in which heatwaves, drought and wildfires could become more frequent and economically disruptive.

The summer of 2026 is therefore emerging as a warning that a climate shock can begin with temperatures and rainfall but eventually affect economic growth, prices, industrial production and household budgets.

France and Spain are battling one of their most severe wildfire emergencies in recent years, with more than 220,000 people either evacuated or forced to leave their homes as fast-moving fires continue to spread across both countries.

Authorities say soaring temperatures, prolonged dry weather, and the growing impact of climate change have intensified the wildfires, making them extremely difficult to contain. Emergency services remain on high alert as firefighters race to protect residential areas and prevent further destruction.

Over Two Lakh People Displaced

According to official figures, around 141,000 residents in France have been evacuated as wildfires spread rapidly through several regions, particularly near Bordeaux.

In neighboring Spain, the government has declared a national emergency after multiple fires broke out across the country. Authorities have ordered 25,000 people to evacuate their homes, while nearly 40,000 residents have been advised to remain indoors because of hazardous smoke and deteriorating air quality.

The combined impact has affected more than 220,000 people, making it one of Europe's largest wildfire emergencies this year.

Extreme Heat and Climate Change Blamed

Emergency officials say the fires have been fueled by exceptionally high temperatures, dry vegetation, and strong winds.

According to reports, the flames spread so rapidly that firefighters were unable to attack some fire fronts directly, forcing authorities to prioritize evacuations and the protection of populated areas.

Scientists have repeatedly warned that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including prolonged heatwaves and destructive wildfires across southern Europe.

Firefighters Injured, No Deaths Reported in Current Blaze

French authorities confirmed that dozens of firefighters sustained injuries while battling the flames. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported in either France or Spain during the current wildfire crisis.

Emergency crews continue working around the clock to contain the fires despite difficult weather conditions.

Military Deployed to Fight the Fires

Spain has deployed its Military Emergency Unit (UME) to assist firefighters in controlling the rapidly advancing flames.

One of the primary operations is underway near the historic town of El Escorial, where emergency teams are attempting to stop the fire before it reaches residential neighborhoods.

Authorities are also monitoring another significant wildfire in Ávila Province, where firefighting operations remain ongoing.

Massive Traffic Jams During Evacuations

As evacuation orders were issued, thousands of residents attempted to leave affected areas simultaneously, resulting in kilometres-long traffic jams on major highways.

Images from the affected regions showed vehicles stretching for miles as families rushed to safer locations while smoke engulfed nearby forests.

Emergency officials urged residents to follow designated evacuation routes and avoid returning to affected areas until authorities declare them safe.

Thousands of Firefighters Continue Operations

Firefighters from several countries, including Spain, Morocco, Colombia, and Romania, have joined efforts to contain the flames.

Ground crews are working alongside helicopters and aircraft to slow the spread of the fires and protect homes, forests, and critical infrastructure.

Despite their efforts, officials warn that strong winds and dry conditions continue to create unpredictable fire behavior.

Earlier Wildfires Claimed 12 Lives

The current emergency comes only days after another devastating wildfire swept through Spain's Andalusia region, killing at least 12 people and leaving 19 others missing.

According to authorities, the fire spread rapidly after reportedly being triggered by the collapse of a power line, although investigators are still examining the exact cause.

Several victims were found trapped inside a vehicle while others died attempting to escape the fast-moving flames.

Officials said one of the vehicles appeared to be right-hand drive, raising the possibility that some victims may have been British nationals. The UK Foreign Office has been informed.

Europe Faces Another Severe Wildfire Season

The latest fires highlight the growing challenge Europe faces each summer as rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and changing climate patterns increase wildfire risks.

Authorities in both France and Spain have urged residents to remain vigilant, follow evacuation instructions, and avoid affected regions while emergency crews continue their operations.

With weather conditions expected to remain hot and dry, firefighters fear the situation could worsen before significant containment is achieved.

Canada's 2026 wildfire season has escalated into one of the country's most severe environmental emergencies in recent years, with hundreds of active fires continuing to burn across multiple provinces despite large-scale firefighting efforts. The crisis has expanded beyond Canada's borders, sending dense smoke across the United States, disrupting daily life, worsening air quality and raising fresh concerns about climate resilience.

Authorities say the combination of prolonged heat, dry conditions, lightning strikes and the unique characteristics of Canada's boreal forests has created conditions that make many fires extremely difficult to control.

Hundreds of Fires Remain Active

By mid-July, Canada was battling nearly 900 active wildfires, with a significant number classified as out of control. Major fire activity has been reported in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, Yukon, Northwest Territories and several Atlantic provinces.

Ontario has emerged as one of the worst-hit regions, where dozens of fires continue to threaten remote communities, forests and critical infrastructure. Firefighters, helicopters, water bombers and emergency response teams remain deployed across affected areas, but many blazes continue to spread.

The smoke generated by these fires has travelled thousands of kilometres, triggering air quality alerts in major cities including Toronto, Chicago, Detroit, New York and Washington, D.C.

Extreme Weather Accelerating Fire Spread

Wildfires occur every summer in Canada, but experts say this year's season intensified rapidly after weeks of unusually high temperatures and below-normal rainfall.

Large parts of northern Canada experienced persistent heatwaves, drying forests, peatlands and grasslands. The lack of moisture has turned vegetation into highly combustible fuel, allowing even small ignitions to grow into massive wildfires.

Meteorologists also point to a prolonged heat dome—a high-pressure weather system that traps hot air over a region—as one of the key drivers behind the crisis. The system has suppressed rainfall while maintaining unusually high temperatures across large areas.

Lightning and Strong Winds Add to the Challenge

Lightning remains one of the biggest natural causes of Canadian wildfires.

During dry conditions, thunderstorms often generate lightning without significant rainfall, igniting multiple fires simultaneously across remote landscapes.

Strong winds further complicate firefighting efforts by pushing flames into new areas and carrying burning embers kilometres ahead of the main fire front, creating additional spot fires.

Remote Forests Make Firefighting Difficult

Canada's vast boreal forests present one of the greatest challenges for emergency responders.

Many active fires are burning hundreds of kilometres away from roads, towns or water infrastructure, making conventional firefighting operations impossible. Emergency crews often rely on helicopters, aircraft and specially trained smokejumpers, who parachute directly into isolated fire zones.

Because resources are limited, authorities prioritise protecting communities, highways, power infrastructure and critical facilities rather than attempting to extinguish every wildfire burning in remote wilderness.

'Zombie Fires' Continue Burning Underground

Another factor making Canada's wildfire season especially difficult is the presence of so-called "zombie fires."

Much of Canada's boreal forest sits above deep peat layers that can continue smouldering underground long after surface flames disappear. These underground fires may burn for weeks or even survive beneath winter snow before reigniting the following year.

Even extensive aerial water drops cannot always extinguish these hidden hotspots, allowing fires to re-emerge unexpectedly.

Wildfires Creating Their Own Weather

Scientists say some of Canada's largest fires have become powerful enough to influence local weather conditions.

Intense heat generated by massive fires can produce towering pyrocumulonimbus clouds—fire-generated thunderstorms capable of creating unpredictable winds and dry lightning.

These storms can rapidly change the direction of a wildfire while simultaneously igniting entirely new fires several kilometres away, making suppression efforts even more challenging.

Smoke Impacting Millions Across North America

Smoke from the Canadian wildfires has spread across much of North America, reducing visibility and pushing air pollution to hazardous levels.

Several major cities temporarily recorded among the world's worst air quality readings as fine particulate matter (PM2.5) increased sharply. Health officials have advised residents to stay indoors, avoid strenuous outdoor activity and wear N95 or KN95 masks when outside.

Medical experts warn that prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke can aggravate asthma, heart disease and respiratory illnesses, with children, older adults and people with chronic health conditions facing the greatest risks.

Relief May Not Come Soon

Environment and Climate Change Canada expects above-average temperatures and continued dry weather across several regions through August.

Without widespread rainfall, officials believe wildfire activity could remain elevated for the remainder of the summer. While temporary improvements in air quality may occur as wind patterns shift, authorities caution that smoke will likely continue affecting large parts of Canada and the United States as long as hundreds of fires remain active.

The ongoing wildfire emergency highlights not only the growing challenges posed by extreme weather but also the increasing complexity of managing large-scale forest fires in a warming climate.

Madhya Pradesh is witnessing an unusual spell of heat in the middle of the monsoon season, with maximum temperatures crossing 36°C in several districts after a prolonged pause in heavy rainfall. Weather officials say the state has not witnessed heavy or very heavy rain for the past six days, and widespread showers are unlikely over the next five days.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Bhopal, the weakening monsoon has pushed temperatures to levels more typical of March and April, while the state's cumulative rainfall remains 7% below normal.

Rainfall Remains Below Average

IMD data shows Madhya Pradesh has received 241.8 mm of rainfall so far this season against the normal 260 mm, leaving the state with a rainfall deficit of around 7%.

The shortfall is more pronounced in eastern Madhya Pradesh, including the divisions of Jabalpur, Sagar, Shahdol and Rewa, where rainfall is nearly 21% below normal. Western divisions, including Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, Narmadapuram and Gwalior-Chambal, have recorded a comparatively lower deficit of about 6%.

Meteorologists attributed the current conditions to a weak monsoon phase, with no major rain-bearing systems affecting the state over the past week.

Light Rain Expected in 21 Districts

The weather department has forecast light rainfall on Wednesday in districts including Indore, Ujjain, Ratlam, Jhabua, Dhar, Alirajpur, Chhindwara, Pandhurna, Seoni, Mandla, Balaghat, Dindori, Anuppur, Umaria, Shahdol, Satna, Maihar, Rewa, Mauganj, Sidhi and Singrauli.

Meanwhile, warm and humid conditions are expected to persist across several other districts, including Bhopal, Sehore, Raisen, Vidisha, Rajgarh, Narmadapuram, Gwalior, Morena, Shivpuri, Jabalpur, Sagar, Damoh, Chhatarpur, Khandwa, Khargone, Dewas, Ujjain, Neemuch, Mandsaur and Harda.

July Heat Raises Concern

July is traditionally the wettest month in Madhya Pradesh, contributing nearly 40% of the state's seasonal monsoon rainfall. The current dry spell has therefore raised concerns among meteorologists and farmers alike.

Officials noted that while rainfall improved during the first week of July after a weak June, the recent lull has once again pushed the state's rainfall statistics into the deficit category.

With limited rainfall expected over the coming days, daytime temperatures are likely to rise further.

Some Districts Continue to Perform Well

Despite the statewide deficit, a few districts have recorded above-normal rainfall.

Dewas remains the best-performing district, having received rainfall 102% above normal, with nearly 18 inches of rain so far this season.

Other districts showing healthy rainfall include Indore, Sehore, Harda, Bhopal, Betul, Burhanpur, Khandwa, Khargone, Raisen, Rajgarh, Ratlam, Ujjain, Vidisha, Jabalpur, Mandla, Sagar, Seoni and Balaghat.

In contrast, Alirajpur has recorded the lowest rainfall in the state, receiving only about 2.25 inches, nearly 74% below normal.

Historic Rainfall Records

Historical IMD records underline how unusual the current weather pattern is.

• Bhopal recorded a record 41 inches of rainfall in July 1986, while the city's highest single-day rainfall of nearly 11 inches occurred on 22 July 1973.

• Indore witnessed its highest 24-hour rainfall of 11.5 inches on 27 July 1913, while the city recorded more than 30 inches during July 1973.

With no significant weather systems expected to develop immediately, meteorologists say Madhya Pradesh may continue to experience hot days until monsoon activity strengthens again.

With temperatures relentlessly exceeding 45 degrees Celsius across India, the Union Ministry of Ayush has issued an urgent public health advisory emphasising that plain water alone is not enough to beat extreme heat stress. According to gut health nutritionists and government health bodies, what you eat matters just as much as how much you drink. Indian kitchens already offer simple, effective solutions that have been outsmarting summer long before electrolyte sachets existed.

Coconut water tops the list of natural hydrators. According to nutritionists, when you sweat, you lose electrolytes like potassium, sodium, and magnesium. Coconut water contains around 600mg of potassium per cup, making it one of the most effective natural hydration drinks available. The Ministry of Ayush has labelled it nature's ultimate electrolyte drink.

Cucumber, or kheera, is 96 percent water by weight. Beyond hydration, it contains potassium, magnesium, fibre, and antioxidants that support fluid balance and digestion. Food-based hydration is absorbed more gradually than water, keeping you hydrated longer. Watermelon, 92 percent water, is rich in lycopene, which helps reduce oxidative stress from high heat. It also contains citrulline, which supports healthy blood circulation and helps move heat from the body's core to the skin.

Buttermilk, whether called lassi or chaas, hydrates, replaces salts lost through sweating, and contains live cultures gentle on the stomach. Basil seeds, or sabja, soaked in water for 15 minutes, swell into gel-like spheres that hold water in the system longer, creating sustained hydration. In Hyderabad, old-timers swear by the combination of nimbu paani and sabja for slow-release hydration.

The AYUSH advisory recommends several traditional drinks. Amra Prapanaka, or raw mango panna, is a classic remedy specifically used to prevent heatstroke. Nannari Paanagam, combining Indian sarsaparilla syrup with lime juice and soaked basil seeds, is another cooling Siddha drink. Bael sharbat, made from wood apple, cools the digestive system. Cooling water infusions with khus (vetiver), jeera, or coriander seeds are also recommended.

Acharya Balkrishna, co-founder of Patanjali, recently shared a simple three-ingredient summer drink made with sattu, honey, and water. According to him, the drink provides coolness, natural energy, and nutrition, keeping both body and mind refreshed. Other recommended snacks include falsa (Indian blackberry), munakka (raisins), and petha (ash gourd).

Health experts urge Indians to move away from sugary carbonated drinks and instead embrace these traditional, nutrient-dense alternatives. As the India Meteorological Department continues to issue heatwave alerts, incorporating these hydrating foods into daily meals could be the most effective defence against summer heat.

As temperatures continue to soar across India, touching 45 degrees Celsius in several states, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar has revived three traditional desi hacks that require no air conditioning, no electricity, and no expensive supplements. Taking to Instagram on May 26, the nutritionist, known for guiding Kareena Kapoor Khan's fitness journey, reminded Indians of age-old remedies that have been cooling bodies for centuries.

The first recommendation is to add two to three strands of vetiver roots, also known as vala or khus, to your everyday drinking water. "This is India's OG-infused water," Diwekar said in her video. The roots naturally impart a mild sweetness to the water while creating a cooling effect that works from within. What makes this tip particularly relevant is that in peak summer, most people struggle to drink enough plain water. The vetiver roots solve that problem naturally, making water more appealing. The same roots can be reused for up to three days and, after that, can be tossed into bathing water. Historically, hand-held fans and grass curtains in North Indian homes were woven from vetiver. Beyond cooling, vetiver water may also help with acne, dandruff, and headaches.

The second hack is as nostalgic as it is practical – applying mehndi or henna on hands. Diwekar pointed out that this childhood summer activity was never just about aesthetics. Applying mehndi is one of the oldest and most natural ways to bring body temperature down. Henna has properties that actively draw heat out through the palms, which are key heat-release points in the body. The natural fragrance of mehndi also works as a de-stressor, helping calm the mind and uplift mood. "It gives you a slow life," Diwekar noted.

The third recommendation is buttermilk or chaas. Diwekar suggested consuming it two to three times a day during summer. "Chaas has protein, calcium, and B12. We now know it also works as a prebiotic, probiotic, and postbiotic," she explained. Buttermilk with a little salt, hing, and cumin powder supports digestion, maintains appetite, reduces bloating, and improves skin glow. It also helps replenish electrolytes lost through dehydration.

The Ministry of Ayush, in coordination with the Directorate General of Health Services, has also issued a public health advisory recommending cooling dietary practices and hydrating beverages. Traditional preparations including Nimbukaphala Panaka, Amra Prapanaka, and Chincha Panaka have been specifically mentioned to help regulate body temperature during extreme heat.

As India continues to battle intense heatwaves, these zero-cost, chemical-free solutions offer a sustainable alternative to air conditioning and sugary soft drinks. Diwekar's emphasis on eating local, seasonal foods rather than fancy supplements resonates with a growing movement toward traditional wellness. Health experts suggest that adopting even one of these hacks can make a noticeable difference in how the body copes with rising temperatures.

With temperatures relentlessly exceeding 45°C across India, the Union Ministry of AYUSH, in coordination with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), has issued an urgent public health advisory. While plain water is essential, the government's official guidelines highlight that it isn't enough on its own to beat extreme heat stress. To prevent heat stroke, your body desperately needs traditional, mineral-rich alternatives.

The Ultimate Electrolyte Hydrators

When you sweat, your body loses vital sodium, potassium, and magnesium. The advisory highlights traditional combinations that act as natural oral rehydration solutions:

Coconut Water & Tender Flesh: Labeled as nature's ultimate electrolyte drink, it naturally replenishes potassium and magnesium lost through sweat.

Homemade Lemon Water with Salt: A direct, easy-to-make substitute if commercial ORS packets are unavailable.

Buttermilk and Lassi: Recommended to be consumed daily with a pinch of salt to maintain baseline fluid levels.

Traditional Deep-Cooling Drinks

These herbal infusions and traditional recipes are explicitly recommended by Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha systems to reduce core body temperature:

Amra Prapanaka (Raw Mango Panna): A classic Unani and Ayurvedic remedy made from roasted unripe mango pulp, water, and sugar or salt. It has been used for generations specifically to prevent heatstroke.

Nannari Paanagam: A cooling Siddha drink combining Indian sarsaparilla syrup, lime juice, water, and soaked basil (sabja) seeds.

Bael Sharbat: Made from wood apple, this is highlighted as an excellent traditional option to cool the digestive system.

Official Government Advisory

The Ministry has strongly advised people to stay hydrated throughout the day, even if they don't feel thirsty. According to the advisory, thirst is not always a reliable indicator of dehydration. The advisory further encouraged people to include hydrating and cooling food items such as cucumber, watermelon, lime, musk melon, ash gourd and tomatoes in their daily diet during the summer season.

What to Avoid

People are advised to avoid alcohol, excess tea and coffee, carbonated soft drinks, sugary beverages, oily meals, and high-protein foods during peak heat.

What Next

Citizens have been advised to regularly follow weather updates issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and take necessary precautions during heatwave alerts. The government has also activated emergency helplines 108 and 102 for heatstroke emergencies.

As temperatures continue to soar past 45 degrees Celsius across several Indian states, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar has sparked a nationwide conversation with her three simple desi hacks to beat the summer heat. The nutritionist, known for guiding Kareena Kapoor’s lifestyle, took to Instagram on May 26, urging Indians to ditch cold drinks and air conditioners for age-old remedies that cool the body from within.

The Vetiver Root Revival

The first hack involves adding two to three strands of vetiver roots (vala or khus) to drinking water. “This is India’s OG-infused water,” Diwekar said in her video. The roots naturally sweeten the water while providing a cooling effect that works internally. Diwekar pointed out that in peak summer, most people struggle to drink enough plain water. The roots can be reused for up to three days and later tossed into bathing water. Historically, hand-held fans and curtains in North Indian homes were woven from vetiver, cooling both people and rooms.

Henna – The Forgotten Cooling Ritual

The second hack is as familiar as childhood summer holidays. Diwekar recommends applying mehndi on hands, explaining that henna actively draws heat out through the palms — one of the body’s key heat-release points. “It naturally cools, but it also gives you a slow life. It works as a de-stressor,” she said. The fragrance uplifts mood and helps calm the mind.

Chaas – The Daily Essential

The third and perhaps most practical hack is buttermilk (chaas). Diwekar recommends consuming it two to three times daily during summer. “Chaas has protein, calcium, B12. We now know it also works as a prebiotic, probiotic, and postbiotic,” she explained. With salt, hing, and cumin powder, it supports digestion, maintains appetite, reduces bloating, and improves skin glow.

As India battles one of its hottest summers on record, these natural health hacks offer a timely reminder that the best solutions often lie in grandmother’s kitchen, not in a pharmacy.

In a significant move to protect citizens from the ongoing heatwave, the Ministry of Ayush, in coordination with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), has issued a comprehensive Public Health Advisory on Extreme Heat for the summer of 2026.

Government’s Official Guidelines

The advisory emphasises adequate hydration, avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, wearing light cotton clothing, and consuming seasonal fruits and fluids rich in electrolytes. Vulnerable groups including infants, children, pregnant women, elderly persons, and outdoor workers require special care.

AYUSH-Approved Electrolyte Hydrators

The advisory highlights traditional combinations that act as natural oral rehydration solutions. Coconut water is labelled as nature’s ultimate electrolyte drink, replenishing potassium and magnesium lost through sweat. Homemade lemon water with salt, buttermilk with salt, and sugarcane juice packed with calcium, magnesium, and iron are strongly recommended.

Traditional Deep-Cooling Drinks

The advisory explicitly recommends Amra Prapanaka (raw mango panna), a classic remedy for preventing heatstroke. Nannari Paanagam, a Siddha drink with Indian sarsaparilla and sabja seeds, and Bael Sharbat made from wood apple are also highlighted. Citizens are encouraged to infuse drinking water with khus (vetiver), jeera, or coriander seeds.

High-Water Foods for Daily Diet

The advisory urges the public to include cucumber, watermelon, lime, musk melon, ash gourd, and tomatoes in their daily diet. Sattu drink and falsa (Indian blackberry) are recommended as cooling snacks.

Yoga and Breathing Techniques

The Siddha and Yoga sections advise adopting Sheetali Pranayama and gentle yoga practices for maintaining thermal comfort.

With the India Meteorological Department predicting continued high temperatures, the Ministry of Ayush’s advisory serves as a crucial government update for public safety.

As temperatures continue to soar across the country, the Ministry of Ayush and the Directorate General of Health Services have issued a comprehensive public health advisory recommending traditional wellness practices to combat heat-related illnesses. The advisory comes as several parts of India are experiencing extreme heatwave conditions, with mercury touching record levels in many states.

The advisory provides detailed guidance for the general public, with special emphasis on vulnerable groups including infants, children, pregnant women, elderly persons, outdoor workers, and individuals suffering from chronic illnesses such as heart disease and hypertension. These groups require special care and monitoring during heatwave conditions, officials stated.

The Ayurveda section of the advisory recommends cooling dietary practices and intake of hydrating beverages such as buttermilk, coconut water, and lemon-based drinks. Traditional preparations including Nimbukaphala Panaka (lemonade), Amra Prapanaka (raw mango sharbat), and Chincha Panaka (tamarind drink) have been recommended to help regulate body temperature during extreme heat.

The Siddha and Yoga sections advise the adoption of cooling refreshments and breathing techniques such as Sheetali Pranayama, along with gentle yoga practices to reduce heat stress. Sheetali Pranayama, which involves curling the tongue and inhaling through the mouth, produces a cooling effect on the body and has emerged as the most recommended breathing technique for summer wellness.

The advisory further encourages people to include hydrating and cooling food items such as cucumber, watermelon, lime, musk melon, ash gourd, and tomatoes in their daily diet during the summer season. Citizens have been advised to regularly follow weather updates issued by the India Meteorological Department and take necessary precautions during heatwave alerts.

The advisory cautions citizens to remain alert for danger signs of heat-related illnesses such as dizziness, headache, nausea, altered mental status, high body temperature, dehydration, seizures, and fainting. Heatstroke has been identified as a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention, with the advisory recommending prompt use of emergency helplines 108 or 102 in severe cases.

Health officials expect these natural health measures to become essential knowledge for every Indian household as summer temperatures continue rising. The recognition of traditional wellness practices in official health advisories represents a significant milestone in integrating age-old wisdom with modern health guidelines.

In view of rising temperatures across the country, the Directorate General of Health Services, in coordination with the Ministry of Ayush, has issued a comprehensive public health advisory recommending traditional wellness practices to combat heat-related illnesses.

As heatwave conditions continue to prevail in several parts of India, the Ayush Vertical under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, in coordination with the Ministry of Ayush, has issued a comprehensive Public Health Advisory on Extreme Heat/Heatwave for the current summer season. The advisory, released on May 18, 2026, provides detailed guidance for the general public, vulnerable groups, employers, workers, and participants in mass gatherings.

According to the advisory, infants, children, pregnant women, the elderly, outdoor workers, and individuals suffering from chronic illnesses such as heart disease and hypertension are particularly vulnerable during heatwave conditions and require special care and monitoring.

The advisory incorporates traditional wellness and preventive measures from various AYUSH systems. The Ayurveda section recommends cooling dietary practices, intake of hydrating beverages such as buttermilk, coconut water and lemon-based drinks, and use of traditional preparations including Nimbukaphala Panaka (lemonade), Amra Prapanaka (raw mango sharbat) and Chincha Panaka (tamarind drink) to help regulate body temperature during extreme heat.

The Siddha and Yoga sections advise the adoption of cooling refreshments and breathing techniques such as Sheetali Pranayama, along with gentle yoga practices to reduce heat stress. Sheetali Pranayama, a breathing technique that involves curling the tongue and inhaling through the mouth, is known to have a cooling effect on the body.

The advisory further encouraged people to include hydrating and cooling food items such as cucumber, watermelon, lime, musk melon, ash gourd and tomatoes in their daily diet during the summer season. Citizens have also been advised to regularly follow weather updates issued by the India Meteorological Department and take necessary precautions during heatwave alerts.

The advisory urged citizens to remain alert for symptoms of heat-related illnesses such as dizziness, headache, nausea, altered mental status, high body temperature, dehydration, seizures and loss of consciousness. Heatstroke has been identified as a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention, with the advisory recommending prompt use of emergency helplines 108 or 102 in severe cases.

As mercury touches 46°C in parts of India, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar recommends three traditional, science-backed remedies to cool the body from within without relying on air conditioners.

With the India Meteorological Department recording temperatures soaring past 46°C in the national capital region, the search for effective cooling solutions has become a matter of daily survival. While air conditioners and coolers provide temporary relief, they cannot address the fundamental issue—cooling the body from the inside out.

On May 26, 2026, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar, known for her work with Kareena Kapoor and other Bollywood stars, took to social media to share three traditional Indian remedies that have been used for centuries. These ancestral practices, she emphasised, offer sustainable, nature-based methods to manage dehydration and maintain physical wellness.

The first recommendation is to add two or three wala or vetiver roots to your daily drinking water. The roots naturally add a mild sweetness and, more importantly, bring a cooling effect that works from the inside out. You can reuse the same roots for up to three days before tossing them into your bathing water.

Diwekar pointed out that in peak summer, most people genuinely struggle to drink enough water because plain water doesn’t feel appealing. The vetiver roots solve that problem naturally. Interestingly, the traditional hand-held fans used in India before electricity were often woven from vetiver, and the grass curtains behind coolers in North Indian homes also came from these roots.

The second hack is applying natural henna or mehndi on the hands. Diwekar stresses that this age-old technique, which many grew up with but have now forgotten, not only cools the body naturally but also gives a sense of a slow life. Henna has properties that actively draw heat out through the palms, which is one of the body’s key heat-release points.

The third recommendation is consuming buttermilk or chaas two to three times a day during the summer season. The whey in buttermilk contains protein, calcium, and B12, and works as a prebiotic, probiotic, and postbiotic. Adding a little salt, asafoetida, and cumin powder to buttermilk corrects electrolyte imbalance caused by dehydration, aids digestion, and prevents loss of appetite.

While these are things individuals can do at home, Diwekar also noted that the need of the hour is for policymakers to step in and protect homes from getting overheated. As India continues to grapple with extreme weather events, a combination of individual action and systemic change will be crucial.