The World Bank warned that India could become one of the first places where wet-bulb temperatures routinely exceed 35°C.

Question

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.

1. A. I only
2. B. II only
3. C. Both I and II (Correct answer)
4. D. Neither I nor II

Correct Answer

Option C — Both I and II

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is Both I and II.

Key Points

• A wet-bulb temperature of 35°C is the theoretical maximum at which a healthy adult can survive outdoors, even in shade with maximum sweating, as the body can no longer shed heat through perspiration — Statement II correctly captures this implication.
• Statement I about Peninsular India suffering flooding, cyclones, and droughts reflects broader climate change impacts on the Indian subcontinent consistent with the World Bank's analysis.
• UPSC considers both statements as correct implications.