Delhi’s Summer Forecast: More Heatwaves, Less Rain – Are You Prepared?
Ankita Rai | Tue, 01 Apr 2025
Delhi is preparing for a very severe summer in 2025, as the IMD forecasts high temperatures, more heatwave days, and a severe rainfall shortfall. It is predicted that the capital will see record-breaking heat, with twice as many heatwave days as in recent years. Heat-related illnesses will become a serious concern as a result of climate change and the consequences of urban heat. This article explores the IMD's prediction, the causes of the temperature increase, and crucial safety precautions.
( Image credit : Pixabay )
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Just before summer arrives in Delhi, residents can expect the hottest summer possible in 2025, with more heat waves and below-average rainfall. The capital is expected to see above-normal maximum temperatures between April and June, while heatwave days will be significantly higher than normal in most years, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said.
Delhi, along with some other regions in northwest India, will experience a sharp rise in maximum temperatures during the summer months, according to the seasonal forecast from the IMD. The peak number of heatwave days in Delhi, specifically, is also expected to double — in April alone, there is a projection of two-three heatwave days. That is an extraordinary leap from this late-October period's typical only one to three heatwave days.
The IMD defines heatwave as when the maximum temperature is 40 degrees Celsius or more in the plains, 37 degrees or more in coastal regions and 30 degrees or more in hilly areas for at least two consecutive days. The expected increase in heatwave days comes with very public health risks, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly, children, and those with underlying health problems. Extended exposure to extreme heat can result in heat exhaustion, heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses.
Adding to the trouble from rising heat, Delhi is also likely to receive below normal rainfall this summer. In March 2025, the city saw mere 1.8 mm of rain - down from the normal of 17.4 mm - amounting to a deficit of 90%. This is expected to hold, with below-average rainfall likely for the coming months according to the IMD. However, the IMD has also forecast that El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions would remain neutral, which should mitigate the detrimental impact of El Niño phenomena commonly associated with reduced rainfall during the monsoon season.
Climate change and the urban heat island effect are to blame for the growing number and strength of heatwaves battering Delhi. Due to extreme urbanization, deforestation, and increasing concrete coverage, there is higher ambient air temperature in urban locations. All these, when coupled with rising global temperatures, enhance the impact of heatwaves, making urban areas like Delhi highly vulnerable to extreme heat events.
Given these forecasts, both officials and citizens should take steps to reduce the effects of the anticipated heat. The IMD also released guidelines for heatwave preparedness, which include staying hydrated, avoiding exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours, and using cooling devices like fans and air conditioning. There is a need for public health campaigns to educate people about the risk factors of heatwaves and the preventive measures to be taken.
Urban development strategies are also integral to addressing the impacts of extreme heat. Afforestation and development of urban parks can reduce ambient temperature by increasing the green cover. Cool roofing systems and improved building ventilation can also help mitigate the heat burden. Setting up heatwave early warning systems also allows for preparedness for upcoming heatwaves, helping to save lives.
Conclusion
The summer of 2025 will likely test Delhi with record levels of heat and reduced rain. Accurate forecasts and thorough planning can allow for proactive measures to protect public health and help the city withstand climate change impacts as they grow. With community awareness and interventions, the sweltering months ahead, can become a better experience for the capital.
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Expected Temperature Patterns
high temperature
( Image credit : Pixabay )
Delhi, along with some other regions in northwest India, will experience a sharp rise in maximum temperatures during the summer months, according to the seasonal forecast from the IMD. The peak number of heatwave days in Delhi, specifically, is also expected to double — in April alone, there is a projection of two-three heatwave days. That is an extraordinary leap from this late-October period's typical only one to three heatwave days.
Understanding the Heatwave: The Definition and Effects of a Heat Wave
heat
( Image credit : Pixabay )
The IMD defines heatwave as when the maximum temperature is 40 degrees Celsius or more in the plains, 37 degrees or more in coastal regions and 30 degrees or more in hilly areas for at least two consecutive days. The expected increase in heatwave days comes with very public health risks, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly, children, and those with underlying health problems. Extended exposure to extreme heat can result in heat exhaustion, heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses.
Monsoon Rainfall Outlook and 2025 Projections
monsoon
( Image credit : Pixabay )
Adding to the trouble from rising heat, Delhi is also likely to receive below normal rainfall this summer. In March 2025, the city saw mere 1.8 mm of rain - down from the normal of 17.4 mm - amounting to a deficit of 90%. This is expected to hold, with below-average rainfall likely for the coming months according to the IMD. However, the IMD has also forecast that El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions would remain neutral, which should mitigate the detrimental impact of El Niño phenomena commonly associated with reduced rainfall during the monsoon season.
Climate change and the urban heat island effect are to blame for the growing number and strength of heatwaves battering Delhi. Due to extreme urbanization, deforestation, and increasing concrete coverage, there is higher ambient air temperature in urban locations. All these, when coupled with rising global temperatures, enhance the impact of heatwaves, making urban areas like Delhi highly vulnerable to extreme heat events.
Preventive Measures and Preparedness Strategies
summer evening
( Image credit : Pixabay )
Given these forecasts, both officials and citizens should take steps to reduce the effects of the anticipated heat. The IMD also released guidelines for heatwave preparedness, which include staying hydrated, avoiding exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours, and using cooling devices like fans and air conditioning. There is a need for public health campaigns to educate people about the risk factors of heatwaves and the preventive measures to be taken.
Urban development strategies are also integral to addressing the impacts of extreme heat. Afforestation and development of urban parks can reduce ambient temperature by increasing the green cover. Cool roofing systems and improved building ventilation can also help mitigate the heat burden. Setting up heatwave early warning systems also allows for preparedness for upcoming heatwaves, helping to save lives.
Conclusion
summer
( Image credit : Pexels )
The summer of 2025 will likely test Delhi with record levels of heat and reduced rain. Accurate forecasts and thorough planning can allow for proactive measures to protect public health and help the city withstand climate change impacts as they grow. With community awareness and interventions, the sweltering months ahead, can become a better experience for the capital.
Unlock insightful tips and inspiration on personal growth, productivity, and well-being. Stay motivated and updated with the latest at My Life XP.
