The IMD forecasts double the heatwave days in Northwest India this summer, expecting 10 to 12 days instead of the usual 5 to 6. While conditions will be hotter, not all days will record above-average temperatures. The outlook suggests many areas will see increased heat, though some southern and northeastern states may have normal or cooler weather.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning indicating that Northwest India may experience double the typical number of heatwave days this summer. This region, which traditionally witnesses 5 to 6 heatwave days, is projected to encounter approximately 10 to 12 heatwave days this season, according to reports from the news agency ANI.
IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy commented on the expected conditions, stating, “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.” She noted, however, that an increase in heatwave days does not necessarily imply that all days will experience above-normal temperatures.
In 2024, India observed a record 554 heatwave days, marking the warmest year on record for the country. A heatwave is officially defined by the weather department as having a maximum temperature of at least 40 degrees Celsius or 5 degrees above the seasonal average. The IMD’s seasonal heat outlook for March to May 2025 suggests that the majority of the country will likely experience increased minimum and maximum temperatures, while southern and northeastern states might see near-normal or below-normal temperatures this summer.
The IMD’s seasonal forecast emphasizes that, “During the season (MAM), 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 IMD warns that Northwest India may experience significantly higher heatwave days this summer, predicting 10 to 12 days as opposed to the usual 5 to 6. While this increase indicates heightened temperature conditions, it does not guarantee that all summer days will be unseasonably warm. The overall trend shows most parts of the country facing above-normal temperatures this summer, with some regions maintaining typical conditions.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
