NEW DELHI — Temperatures soared across North India on March 27, with Delhi touching a sweltering 40.5°C, marking the hottest day of the year so far. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an early heatwave alert, warning that Northwest India could witness twice the usual number of heatwave days from March to May 2025.
Delhi Scorches Under Record-Breaking March Heat
According to IMD data, Delhi’s Ridge area recorded a maximum temperature of 40.5°C, which is 6.3°C above normal, surpassing the previous high of 37.1°C just a day earlier. This is the highest March temperature in the capital since 2022, when mercury hit 39.1°C.
IMD officials highlighted that unseasonal warming trends have returned, fueled by shifting wind patterns and a lack of pre-monsoon showers, setting the stage for a challenging summer ahead.
Heatwave Warning: IMD Predicts Spike in Extreme Heat Days
In its latest forecast, IMD warned that Northwest India could face 10–12 heatwave days this season, double the typical 5–6 days. IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy said, “We expect slightly above-normal heatwave activity, especially across West and Central India. While this doesn’t mean every day will be unusually hot, the frequency and intensity are concerning.”
In 2024, India recorded 554 heatwave days, making it the hottest year on record, and 2025 appears to be on a similar trajectory.
North and Central India Already Feeling the Burn
Cities across the country are reporting extreme March heat:
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Akola, Maharashtra: 42°C
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Hoshangabad, Madhya Pradesh: 40.9°C
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Chittorgarh, Rajasthan: 40.5°C
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Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh: 41°C (7.8°C above normal)
The IMD warns that Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan could see hot and dry winds, increasing the risk of heatwaves in the coming days.
Weather Forecast: Uttar Pradesh & Bihar to See Mixed Conditions
Uttar Pradesh:
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Western UP and Bundelkhand may experience heatwave-like conditions, with temperatures ranging from 38°C to 42°C.
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Eastern UP could get isolated light showers over the next 24–48 hours, offering brief relief.
Bihar:
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Southern and central Bihar may face dry and hot weather, with temperatures hitting 41°C.
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IMD predicts unseasonal thunderstorms and gusty winds (30–40 km/h) in parts of South Bihar in the next 48 hours.
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Northern Bihar is expected to remain dry and warm.
Dusty Northwestern Winds May Bring Brief Temperature Dip
Rajasthan is expected to send northwesterly dust-laden winds into adjoining states over the next few days, potentially cooling the region by 3–4°C. However, the dry and dusty conditions will persist across Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, with wind speeds ranging between 20–30 km/h.
Precautionary Measures: IMD Issues Public Health Advisory
The IMD has advised the public to:
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Stay hydrated and avoid outdoor exposure during peak hours
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Wear lightweight, breathable clothing
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Take extra care of children, the elderly, and those with health conditions
As North India braces for an early and prolonged summer, staying informed and taking proactive precautions will be key to navigating the rising heat.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
