IMD Issues Warning of ‘Double Heatwave’ from March to May 2025 | Full Forecast
IMD Issues Warning of 'Double Heatwave' from March to May 2025 | Full Forecast
A heatwave is officially declared when the maximum temperature in the plains reaches 40°C or is at least 5°C higher than normal.
Northwest India is in for an exceptionally hot summer, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts a significant increase in heatwave days. Typically, this region experiences five to six heatwave days per season, but this year, it could face 10 to 12 days, nearly double the usual number, according to IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy in a statement to ANI.
“We are expecting slightly above-normal heatwave conditions, especially over West and Central India. Generally, Northwest India sees around 5 to 6 heatwave days. This year, we expect 10 to 12 days, which is double the normal,” Roy explained.
She emphasized, however, that this is a seasonal forecast and doesn’t mean every day will be hotter than usual. The IMD will provide updated forecasts, including extended-range and daily predictions, for more localized accuracy.
What Does the Heatwave Warning Mean for India?
While the IMD has not yet confirmed if the upcoming summer will surpass the record-breaking heat of 2024, last year saw an alarming 554 heatwave days, making it the hottest year in India’s history. A heatwave is officially declared when the maximum temperature in the plains reaches 40°C or is at least 5°C higher than normal.
The Seasonal Heat Outlook for March to May 2025, released on February 28, warns that most of India will experience above-normal temperatures, both maximum and minimum. However, some southernmost regions of Peninsular India and isolated areas in the Northeast may experience near-normal or slightly below-normal temperatures.
“During the season (March-May), above-normal minimum temperatures are likely over most parts of the country except some isolated southernmost regions of Peninsular India where normal minimum temperatures are likely,” the forecast stated.
As temperatures rise in North India in the coming days, Delhi and nearby areas could see an increase of 1-2°C. However, temporary relief may come from north-westerly winds originating from Rajasthan, which could bring a sharp drop in temperatures by 3-4°C.
These dust-raising winds, blowing at speeds of 20-30 km/h, are expected to sweep through Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan over the next three days, making the weather dry and dusty.
With heatwave conditions expected to intensify, authorities are likely to issue advisories to help people protect themselves from the heat and encourage necessary precautions.
