The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning that northwestern India will experience an exceptionally hot summer in 2025, with the number of heatwave days expected to double compared to the seasonal average.
Typically, the region endures five to six heatwave days per summer, but this year, forecasts predict 10 to 12.
“We are expecting slightly above-normal heatwave conditions, especially over West and Central India,” said IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy. “While this is a seasonal outlook, it does not mean every day will be extremely hot.”
Will 2025 Set New Heat Records?
While the IMD has not confirmed whether 2025 will surpass 2024’s record-breaking 554 heatwave days, the Seasonal Heat Outlook (March-May 2025) indicates that most of India will experience above-normal temperatures, both during the day and night.
However, southernmost parts of peninsular India and some areas in the northeast may witness near-normal or slightly cooler conditions.
Temporary Relief for North India
As temperatures rise steadily, the northern states will see 1-2°C increases. However, a brief respite is expected as northwesterly winds from Rajasthan will bring a 3-4°C drop over the next few days. These winds, blowing at 20-30 km/h, will also cause dust storms in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, leading to dry and hazy conditions.
With heatwave conditions set to intensify, authorities are expected to issue heat advisories, urging people to take precautions. The IMD’s warning highlights the growing impact of climate change on India’s weather patterns, with extreme heat becoming more frequent and severe.