The IMD’s latest weather forecast signals that India will face an extraordinarily severe summer in 2025. Heatwaves, which have been a growing concern in recent years, will be more frequent and prolonged, with some regions expected to experience record-breaking temperatures.
Scientists attribute the upcoming extreme heat conditions to the ongoing effects of climate change, combined with regional weather patterns and delayed monsoon rains. Such climatic shifts are resulting in increasingly erratic weather, characterized by unseasonal temperatures and unpredictable rainfall patterns. The frequency of heatwaves, which was once confined to specific regions during a limited period, is now expected to spread across the country, affecting even historically cooler areas.
Regional Variability in Heatwaves
The IMD has identified several states, including Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra, as particularly vulnerable to severe heatwaves. These states, traditionally known for their dry climates, are expected to face significantly higher-than-usual temperatures. Other areas, including parts of South India and the Northeastern states, are also likely to experience abnormally high heat conditions, although the intensity may vary.
Strain on Infrastructure
The rising temperatures are expected to put a strain on India’s already overstretched infrastructure. Power grids, for instance, could face difficulties in coping with the increased demand for air conditioning and cooling. Moreover, transportation systems, particularly in major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, could experience delays due to heat-related disruptions.
In urban areas, buildings and roads will also be affected by the heat, leading to an increase in the risk of heat-related accidents. Experts are calling for a rapid improvement in the design of infrastructure, with an emphasis on sustainability and heat resilience.
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