IMD warns of ‘double heatwave’ in northwest India from March-May 2025

NORTHWEST India is set to experience a significantly hotter summer, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting nearly double the usual number of heatwave days.

The region, which typically records five to six heatwave days in a season, may now face 10 to 12, IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy told the 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.

However, she clarified that this is a seasonal forecast and does not imply that all days will be hotter than usual. The IMD will continue updating predictions with extended-range and daily forecasts for more localised accuracy.

The IMD did not confirm whether this summer will surpass 2024’s record-breaking heat. Last year, India recorded an alarming 554 heatwave days, making it the hottest year in the country’s history.

According to the IMD, a heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature in the plains reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius or rises five degrees above normal.

The Seasonal Heat Outlook for March to May 2025, released on February 28, warns that most of India will see above-normal maximum and minimum temperatures. However, some southernmost parts 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.

IMD predicts brief relief for North India

In the coming days, North India will witness a further rise in temperatures, with Delhi and surrounding areas expected to warm up by 1-2 degrees Celsius. However, temporary relief may arrive with north-westerly winds from Rajasthan, bringing a sharp 3-4 degree drop in temperatures.

These dust-raising winds, blowing at 20-30 km/h, will sweep through Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan over the next three days, making the weather dusty and dry.

With heatwave conditions expected to intensify, authorities are likely to issue advisories for heat protection, urging residents to take necessary precautions.