India Faces Intensifying Heatwaves, Scorching Summer Ahead: IMD
New Delhi: India is set to experience an unusually hot summer with an increase in heatwave days, posing significant risks to lives and livelihoods, the weather office has warned.
While scorching summers are common in India, scientific research shows that climate change is making heatwaves more prolonged, frequent, and intense.
The summer season, which typically lasts from April to June, often sees temperatures soaring beyond 45°C (113°F) at its peak. This year, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted “above-normal” maximum temperatures across most parts of the country.
India to Face More Heatwave Days, Rising Health and Infrastructure Risks
The number of heatwave days—when temperatures soar several degrees above the long-term average—is expected to increase significantly, the weather office has warned.
“Up to 10 or more heatwave days can be expected, especially in eastern India,” said Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, chief of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), cautioning that prolonged heat exposure could lead to severe health risks. Typically, India experiences four to seven heatwave days between April and June.
Infants, the elderly, individuals with pre-existing health conditions, and outdoor workers are particularly vulnerable. Heat stress can cause symptoms ranging from dizziness and headaches to organ failure and even death. Urban dwellers, surrounded by heat-absorbing materials like concrete and brick, face an elevated risk due to the urban heat island effect.
Beyond health concerns, extreme heat can strain infrastructure, affecting power grids and transportation systems. The IMD has urged authorities to implement heat action plans, including setting up cooling centers, issuing heat advisories, and adopting strategies to mitigate urban heat effects.
Last year, India endured its longest-ever heatwave, with temperatures regularly surpassing 45°C (113°F). The World Health Organization estimates that extreme heat kills at least half a million people annually, though the actual toll could be significantly higher.
