Innovative Heat Wave Early Warning System And Action Plan In Ahmedabad, India

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.

In April 2013, the AMC and partners launched the city’s initial heat action plan, becoming the first city in South Asia to comprehensively address the health threats of extreme heat. The AMC designated its Health Department and a deputy health officer as lead agency and lead officer, respectively, with the overarching responsibility to coordinate all related municipal activities. The lead officer monitors daily temperature forecasts, sends heat alerts and disseminates public health messages to local government departments, health services and the media.