heatwave index

The heatwave index is a measurement that assesses how hot and persistent a period of extreme temperatures is. It considers not only the peak temperatures but also how long high temperatures last, providing a comprehensive idea of a heatwave's severity. Essentially, it helps identify when weather conditions reach dangerous levels of heat that can impact health, infrastructure, and agriculture. By combining temperature data with duration, the heatwave index offers a clear understanding of the overall heat risk during specific periods.