Heatwave Emergency Guide 2026: What to Do If Your AC Stops Working During a 45°C Afternoon
AC stopped working during a 45°C heatwave? Learn how to stay cool, prevent heatstroke, stay hydrated, and protect your family during extreme heat.
With many areas in India experiencing extreme temperatures of over 45°C, if your air conditioning fails while a heatwave is underway, then your health can quickly deteriorate. Experts highlight that the temperature inside the house can rise rapidly (especially in poorly ventilated houses, and/or in top floor apartments), resulting in an increased risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Block Sunlight
The first way to reduce the amount of heat entering your house is to block the sun.
- Close your curtains and blinds
- Cover your sun-facing windows with a light cotton sheet
- Shade your west-facing windows during the afternoon
- Move to the Coolest Area
- Different areas of your house experience different atmospheric conditions (heat/cool/ventilation). As a rule, rooms on the ground floor, shaded rooms or rooms remaining clear of sun exposure tend to remain cooler.
As opposed to attempting to cool your entire house, pull everyone together in the coolest area of your house.
With temperatures crossing 45°C in several parts of India, an air-conditioner breakdown during a heatwave can quickly become a serious health concern. Experts say indoor temperatures can rise rapidly, especially in top-floor apartments and poorly ventilated homes, increasing the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.
Stay Hydrated
Drink fluids often throughout the day whether you are thirsty or not.
Choose liquids such as:
- Water
- Oral Rehydration Solutions
- Coconut Water
- Buttermilk
- Electrolyte Drinks
Improve the Air Movement
Using
- Ceiling Fans
- Table Fans
- Rechargeable Fans
Reduce Indoor Heat Sources
Switching off appliances that are usually taking up energy (i.e. they are on) will help you to feel more comfortable. Some of these appliances are likely to include:
- Ovens
- Irons
- Gaming Consoles
- Extra Lights
Watch for Heatstroke Symptoms
If you experience any or a combination of the following, seek medical assistance:
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Vomiting
- Racing Heartbeat
- Severe Weakness
- Faintness
India Rain Alerts, Cyclone Updates & Monsoon Watch
Explore Bay of Bengal low pressure update?
Discover coastal cities expecting heavy rain tonight.
Check Assam Meghalaya dangerous road routes?
Explore areas affected by heavy rainfall and alerts.
Discover Srinagar Shimla thunderstorm travel safety?
Check whether hill station travel is advisable this week.
Explore India monsoon arrival rainfall forecast?
Discover expected rain trends for Mumbai and North India.
Check Delhi airport delays sudden rainstorms?
Explore why storms are disrupting flight schedules.
Final Words
When a heat wave hits (in this case, by having an air conditioner stop working on a very hot day), it is a good idea to stay calm and take fast actions to help protect your family while waiting for anything to be fixed or the temperature to become cooler.
FAQs
1. What should I do first if my AC stops working?
Close your curtains. Don’t allow direct sunlight into the house.
2. What can I do to stay cool without AC?
Use fans, wet towels, take cool showers, and drink plenty of fluids.
3. Who is most likely to suffer from extreme heat?
Children, the elderly, pregnant women, and anyone with existing health issues.
4. When do I go to the hospital?
Go to the hospital immediately if you experience such symptoms as confusion, dizziness, or vomiting continually.
