NEW DELHI, April 1: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for an exceptionally hot summer, with rising temperatures predicted across the country. The department forecasts six to ten heatwave days from April to June, which could increase to 10-11 by June. In typical years, India experiences four to seven heatwave days during this period, but the frequency in 2025 is expected to be higher.
The east-central regions of India are expected to be the hardest hit, with significant heatwave conditions anticipated. This prediction follows an unusually warm start to the year, with March’s average temperature recorded at 0.78 degrees Celsius above the long-period average (LPA). IMD’s Director General of Meteorology, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, attributed the warmth to insufficient western disturbances and the broader impact of global warming and climate change.
India is highly vulnerable to extreme heat, as evidenced by heatwaves from March 10 to 18, when temperatures exceeded 40 degrees Celsius in several states. The east-central region, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha in Maharashtra, and parts of Gujarat, is expected to face the most intense heat in the coming months.
IMD predicts that both day and night temperatures across most of India will remain above normal in April. While one to three heatwave days are typical in April, this year could see three to six heatwave days. Temperatures are already rising, with no respite expected until after April 10.
A heatwave is declared when temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius and are 4.5 to 6.5 degrees Celsius above normal in the plains.
The forecast is concerning due to the increasing frequency, intensity, and duration of heatwaves in recent years. Studies show that global warming is exacerbating the situation, with both day and night temperatures rising.
The IMD also expects April’s rainfall to be normal, recovering from March’s 32.6 per cent rainfall deficit. Additionally, the IMD has ruled out an El Nino this summer, which typically brings hotter temperatures and below-average monsoon rainfall.
