Q. The World Bank warned that India could become one of the first places where wet-bulb temperatures routinely exceed 35 °C.
Which of the following statements best reflect(s) the implication of the above-said report?
I. Peninsular India will most likely suffer from flooding, tropical cyclones and droughts.
II. The survival of animals including humans will be affected as shedding of their body heat through perspiration becomes difficult.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) I only
(b) II only
(c) Both I and II
(d) Neither I nor II
Correct Answer : (b) II only
UPSC Prelims 2025 GS Paper's Solution
Explanation :
Statement I: Peninsular India will most likely suffer from flooding, tropical cyclones and droughts. While climate change is linked to an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events like floods, cyclones, and droughts, the World Bank’s warning about wet-bulb temperatures specifically focuses on the direct physiological impact of combined heat and humidity.
High wet-bulb temperatures primarily indicate severe heat stress, not directly an increase in flooding, cyclones, or droughts, although these are all broader climate change impacts that India is vulnerable to. The report highlights that India will witness rising temperatures and heat stress due to climate change.
Statement II: The survival of animals including humans will be affected as shedding of their body heat through perspiration becomes difficult. This statement accurately reflects the implication of high wet-bulb temperatures. Wet-bulb temperature is a measure that combines air temperature and relative humidity, providing a more accurate indication of heat stress on the human body.
When the wet-bulb temperature reaches or exceeds approximately 35°C, the air is so saturated with moisture that sweat cannot evaporate effectively, making it extremely difficult for humans and other animals that rely on evaporative cooling (like sweating or panting) to release excess body heat. Prolonged exposure to such conditions can lead to heatstroke, organ failure, and even death, as the body’s core temperature rises uncontrollably.
The World Bank report highlights that India is particularly vulnerable to these extreme heat conditions, which pose direct health and survival risks, potentially breaking the human survivability limit.
Therefore, Statement II best reflects the implication of the World Bank’s report concerning high wet-bulb temperatures.
The correct answer is II only.
