India dominates global list of heat-risk cities

June 5, 2026 Hot from the Oven Valli Sarvani

Rising temperatures are becoming a defining challenge for rapidly growing urban centres across the world.

A recent study has revealed that India has more cities among the world’s most heat-vulnerable locations than any other country.

Researchers from the University of Oxford assessed 205 cities with populations exceeding one million.

Instead of measuring temperature alone, the study evaluated heat risk through three key factors: exposure to extreme heat, vulnerability of residents, and a city’s ability to cope with rising temperatures.

India accounts for 14 cities in the global top 50 heat-risk rankings. This is significantly higher than other countries, with Nigeria and Pakistan recording five and four cities respectively.

Among Indian cities, Ahmedabad ranks second globally, while Nagpur holds the fourth position. Other highly ranked cities include Madurai, Bhopal, and Kanpur.

Among states, Maharashtra has the highest representation, with Nagpur, Pune, and Mumbai appearing in the top 50. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh each have two cities on the list.

The findings highlight that heat risk extends beyond temperature levels. Residents living in densely populated areas, informal settlements, or neighbourhoods with limited access to electricity and water face greater danger during extreme heat events.

In addition, declining green cover and shrinking open spaces reduce a city’s ability to manage rising temperatures effectively.

The study also examined access to cooling infrastructure and ecological protections such as tree cover. However, researchers warned against excessive dependence on air conditioning.

Increased energy consumption, waste heat emissions, and refrigerants with high global-warming potential can intensify urban heat over time.

Experts argue that cities must adopt broader heat-management strategies.

While cooling technologies remain important, passive solutions such as improved building design, enhanced ventilation, tree plantation, shaded public spaces, and energy-efficient cooling systems offer more sustainable protection.

As heatwaves become more frequent, the study underscores the need for urban planning that addresses social vulnerability and resilience.

Effective adaptation will depend not only on reducing exposure to heat but also on strengthening communities’ ability to cope with a warming climate.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on October 02, 2018