Five Dead from Heatstroke at Chennai Air Show

During an Indian Air Force (IAF) aerial display at Chennai’s Marina Beach, at least five people lost their lives, and over 200 were hospitalized due to heatstroke and dehydration. The event, aimed at entering the Limca Book of World Records, turned tragic due to extreme heat and overcrowding.

The show ran from 11 AM to 1 PM, but the high temperatures and insufficient provisions left many unable to endure the heat. Hundreds suffered from dehydration and heat exhaustion, with five fatalities reported.

Can Heatstroke and Dehydration Cause Death?

Dehydration and heatstroke occur when the body is unable to cope with extreme heat and fluid loss. Both conditions, if untreated, can be life-threatening.

Research has shown that the human body can only tolerate temperatures up to 42.3°C. Dehydration happens when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, disrupting essential functions like temperature regulation, digestion, and circulation. If fluids aren’t replenished, severe electrolyte imbalances can occur, leading to irregular heartbeats, seizures, and organ failure.

Heatstroke occurs when the body’s core temperature rises above 40°C, damaging vital organs like the brain, heart, and kidneys. This can result in confusion, seizures, and unconsciousness. Without timely intervention, both conditions can be fatal.

Quick medical attention, hydration, and cooling measures can prevent severe consequences, but without immediate treatment, dehydration and heatstroke can lead to death.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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