Innovative heatwave early warning system and action plan in Ahmedabad, India

More than 7 million people live in the rapidly urbanizing city of Ahmedabad, located in the state of Gujarat in Western India. Heat waves have already proven to be dangerous in the city, leading to heat stress, heat stroke and heat-related illnesses. Climate change is creating higher daily peak temperatures and longer, more frequent and intense heat waves. Following a deadly heat wave in May 2010, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) realized that coordinated action was needed to protect its residents from extreme heat and to become more climate-resilient. This case study documents the process and results.