India is gearing up for an extremely hot summer, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting above-normal temperatures across most parts of the country. IMD chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra warned that several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha, could face up to 10-11 heatwave days this year. The warning comes after many states already recorded weekly average minimum temperatures 1-3°C higher than normal in February, signaling an early and intense onset of summer heat.
The threat of heatwaves in India is not new, but their frequency and intensity are increasing. Last year, Rajasthan’s Churu recorded the country’s highest-ever temperature at 50.5°C on May 28, 2024. While official data attributed 143 deaths to heatwaves between March and June, independent reports suggest the actual toll was much higher, with 733 heatstroke fatalities reported across 17 states. The discrepancy highlights the severity of the crisis and the challenges in accurately tracking heat-related deaths.
The rising temperatures are driven by a combination of climate change and human activities. India, the world’s third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, heavily depends on coal for energy, contributing to higher carbon emissions. Mohapatra has previously emphasized that industrialization, deforestation, and increasing transportation are accelerating climate risks, putting both current and future generations in danger.
Beyond health risks, extreme heat also disrupts agriculture, leading to water shortages and crop damage. With predictions of 2-4 additional heatwave days in north, east, and central India from April to June, authorities and citizens must take proactive measures. Staying hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, and following weather advisories are crucial to minimizing the impact of the scorching summer ahead. Without urgent action, these deadly heatwaves could become an even more regular and devastating occurrence.
