India Faces Early and Intense Heatwave in 2025, Linked to Climate Change

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): India is experiencing an unusually early and intense heatwave in 2025, with temperatures soaring to alarming levels across key cities. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), New Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai are seeing temperatures of 39°C, 35°C, and 30°C, respectively. This heatwave is not only a striking reminder of the rising temperatures but also a reflection of the growing impacts of climate change on the region.

The map shared by the IMD highlights the significant temperature variations across India, with northern cities like New Delhi bearing the brunt of the soaring heat. Meanwhile, coastal cities such as Mumbai and Chennai, typically known for their relatively moderate temperatures, are also seeing higher-than-normal readings. Experts suggest that the combination of a rain-deficient winter and changing climatic patterns have contributed to the early onset of this heatwave.

The IMD reports that the country's winter season has been abnormally dry, leading to a lack of natural cooling. As a result, the heat has settled in earlier than usual, pushing temperatures above their typical seasonal averages. While heatwaves are not unusual in India, especially during the summer months, the intensity and early arrival of this heatwave in 2025 are particularly concerning.

Climate scientists have long warned that rising global temperatures, driven by climate change, are causing weather patterns to shift unpredictably. The IMD’s findings point to the increasingly frequent occurrence of such extreme weather events, raising alarms about the long-term impacts of climate change on India’s weather systems.

As cities across India brace for more days of intense heat, the public and authorities are urged to take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. Hydration, wearing light clothing, and staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day are key measures recommended by health experts.

This early heatwave is not just a short-term discomfort; it serves as a stark reminder of the larger, ongoing shifts in India’s climate. As global temperatures continue to rise, India is likely to face more frequent and severe heatwaves in the years to come. The need for comprehensive climate action has never been more urgent.