Chennai's thrilling aerial display turned fatal for the crowds that gathered at Marina Beach to witness the event. At least five people died with hundreds hospitalised because of heat exhaustion and dehydration.

At least five people died and over 200 were hospitalised during the Indian Air Force (IAF) air show in Chennai. IAF's thrilling aerial display, which was aimed at entering the Limca Book of World Records, turned fatal for the crowds that gathered at Marina Beach to witness the event.

A combination of high temperatures and overcrowding made it overwhelming for people to stay out for long hours, since the event was between 11 am to 1 pm, especially since provisions and medical facilities weren't enough for those present there.

Many suffered dehydration and heatstroke, which may have resulted in the death of five people.

People can die from dehydration and heatstroke when their bodies are unable to cope with extreme heat and fluid loss. Both conditions, if untreated, can become life-threatening.

Studies have shown that the maximum temperature the human body can handle is 42.3 degrees Celsius.

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in. Our bodies rely on water to maintain essential functions like regulating temperature, digestion, and circulation.

When we sweat, urinate, or lose fluids through other means without replenishing them, it can cause a serious imbalance. Severe dehydration disrupts the balance of electrolytes like sodium and potassium, which are crucial for proper nerve and muscle function.

An imbalance of these can lead to irregular heartbeats, seizures, and even organ failure. According to a Harvard study, dehydration can be fatal if not treated on time.

Without enough fluids, the kidneys, responsible for filtering waste, may stop functioning properly, leading to a toxic build-up in the body.

In the most extreme cases, dehydration can cause shock and organ shutdown, resulting in death.

Meanwhile, heatstroke occurs when the body’s temperature rises to dangerous levels, usually due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or strenuous activity in the heat.

Normally, the body cools itself through sweating, but in extreme conditions or when dehydrated, this cooling system fails. As the body’s core temperature rises above 40 degrees Celsius, it starts to damage essential organs, including the brain, heart, and kidneys. Heatstroke can lead to confusion, seizures, and eventually loss of consciousness.

If the body’s temperature is not quickly reduced, cardiovascular collapse and organ failure can follow, which can be fatal.

In both dehydration and heatstroke, quick intervention with hydration, cooling, and medical attention can prevent severe damage and save lives. However, without timely treatment, these conditions can escalate rapidly and lead to death.

Source: indiatoday