India braces for intense heatwave this summer

New Delhi

India is set to face an extremely hot summer from April to June, with longer and more intense heatwaves in several states, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The IMD predicts above-normal maximum temperatures in most parts of India, except for a few areas in the west and east where temperatures are expected to remain normal. Minimum temperatures will also be higher than usual across the country, said IMD chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra.

"From April to June, most parts of north and east India, central India, and the plains of northwest India are expected to experience two to four more heatwave days than normal," Mohapatra stated. Typically, India records four to seven heatwave days during this period. States likely to see extreme conditions include Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and northern Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Last year, India experienced 536 heatwave days, the highest in 14 years. The extreme heat led to 41,789 suspected heat stroke cases and 143 heat-related deaths. Authorities have been urged to ensure hospitals are prepared to manage heat-related illnesses.

The IMD also warned of rising electricity demand due to heat stress. Experts predict a 9-10% increase in power consumption, surpassing last year’s record of 250 gigawatts.

Normal rainfall is expected in April, with some regions receiving above-average precipitation. However, heavy rains could lead to landslides in Kerala, Karnataka, and flooding in northeastern states.