Feeling the summer heat already? You’re not alone. Many parts of India are experiencing intense temperatures, with the IMD issuing heatwave alerts for Delhi, Karnataka, Goa, and Jharkhand.

On March 15, Odisha’s Boudh recorded a scorching 43.6°C, making it the hottest place in the country, followed by Jharsuguda and Bolangir.

Experts attribute this early heat surge to climate change, shifting weather patterns, terrestrial warming, and urbanisation. With February marking the hottest in 124 years, March is already shaping up to be even hotter—weeks before peak summer begins.

India is experiencing heatwaves in March due to a combination of meteorological and climatic factors. An exceptionally dry winter, with rainfall levels 93% below normal in February, has contributed to clear skies and rapid temperature increases.

A weakening La Niña and neutral Indian Ocean Dipole have further disrupted weather patterns, causing above-normal heat nationwide.

In coastal areas, high humidity is intensifying the impact by hindering the body’s cooling process, raising health risks and mortality rates.

A study on heat wave preparedness in nine Indian cities, including Delhi, found long-term measures lacking and poorly targeted.

It recommends stronger Heat Action Plans, funded specialist roles in climate-vulnerable districts, and capacity-building for local officials to enhance India’s heat resilience.

With heatwaves posing serious health risks, experts stress the need for urgent, sustained action at the city and district levels.

Heatwaves in India typically occur between March and June, with May being the peak month.

However, the unusually high temperatures experienced in early March 2025 have raised concerns among experts.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted above-average temperatures throughout March, which could adversely affect winter-sown crops like wheat, chickpeas, and rapeseed.

Video: PTI

Published on March 23, 2025