At least five people died and more than 200 were hospitalized during an Indian Air Force (IAF) air show in Chennai. A thrilling aerial display by the Indian Air Force, which was aimed at entering the Limca Book of World Records, turned fatal for the crowd that had gathered at the Marina Beach to watch the event.

The combination of high temperatures and overcrowding took a toll on people being outside for long periods of time, as the event was between 11 am and 1 pm, especially because provisions and medical facilities were not adequate for the people present there.

Many suffered dehydration and heatstroke, resulting in the deaths of five people.

Can dehydration and heatstroke result in death?

When people’s bodies become unable to cope with extreme heat and lack of fluids, they can die from dehydration and heatstroke. Both conditions can become life threatening if left untreated.

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 necessary. Our body depends on water to maintain essential functions like regulating temperature, digestion and circulation.

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

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

Without enough fluids, the kidneys responsible for filtering waste may stop functioning properly, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body.

In the most severe cases, dehydration can lead to shock and organ failure, resulting in death.

Meanwhile, heatstroke occurs when the body 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 core body temperature rises above 40 degrees Celsius, it starts damaging essential organs including the brain, heart and kidneys. Heatstroke can lead to confusion, seizures, and eventually loss of consciousness.

If the body temperature is not brought down quickly, cardiac collapse and organ failure can occur, which can be fatal.

In both dehydration and heatstroke, prompt intervention with hydration, cooling, and medical care can prevent serious damage and save lives. However, without timely treatment, these conditions can rapidly progress and lead to death.