what is a heat index

The quick read

What's driving the attention

People are searching to understand what the heat index means and how it differs from air temperature.

Amid extreme heat events with temperatures reaching dangerous levels, such as a heat index of 116 degrees in Missouri and Kansas, and 48°C in Delhi, many seek to understand the scientific basis of the heat index. It represents the 'feels like' temperature, combining air temperature and humidity to indicate apparent temperature and the associated risk for heat-related illnesses. This is important for public safety and staying cool during heat waves.