India Sees Unprecedented Early Heatwaves in 2025, Experts Link to Global Warming

India is experiencing unusually early and intense heatwaves in 2025, with experts attributing them to global warming and regional weather patterns. The first heatwave was recorded in Maharashtra’s Konkan region and Goa on February 25, possibly the earliest ever in the country. February 2025 was also the hottest February on record, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Between February 25 and March 23, India saw heatwave conditions on 12 days and severe heatwaves on eight days, affecting at least nine states, with Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Odisha being the worst hit.

IMD defines heatwaves based on temperature thresholds, with 40°C for plains and 37°C for coastal regions. Since 2024, IMD has also reported hot and humid conditions and warm nights, which were recorded this season in Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat, Odisha, and Jharkhand. Experts point to a large anticyclone over the Arabian Sea, pulling hot air from the northwest, as a key factor behind these early heatwaves. While the upper-level anticyclone’s link to global warming is uncertain, rising temperatures in the Middle East and northern India are worsening local heat conditions. Scientists warn that prolonged extreme heat can increase health risks, mortality rates, and agricultural losses.

With global temperatures rising, India is expected to face more frequent and severe heatwaves in the coming years.

India Sees Unprecedented Early Heatwaves in 2025, Experts Link to Global Warming

India is experiencing extreme heat much earlier than usual in 2025, with soaring temperatures and high humidity affecting multiple states. Experts attribute this unusual weather to a combination of local weather patterns and the growing impact of global warming.

Record-Breaking Heat Begins in February

The first heatwave of the year struck India’s Konkan region (Maharashtra) and Goa as early as February 25—potentially the earliest heatwave ever recorded in the country. While historical data is limited, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that February 2025 was the hottest February in India’s recorded history. Between February 25 and March 23, heatwave conditions were recorded on 12 days, with eight of those days classified as severe heatwaves. At least nine states issued heat-related alerts during this period.

States Hit Hardest

Maharashtra endured the longest stretch of heatwaves, with eight days of extreme heat. Gujarat followed with six days, Odisha with four, and Jharkhand with two. Other affected states included Goa, Karnataka, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana. The most intense heatwaves were reported in Gujarat (five days) and Odisha (four days), where temperatures crossed dangerous thresholds.

How Heatwaves Are Classified

The IMD defines heatwaves based on temperature deviations from normal levels:

• Plains regions: A heatwave is declared if temperatures exceed 40°C or rise 4.5–6.4°C above normal. A severe heatwave occurs if temperatures exceed 6.4°C above normal or cross 45°C.
• Coastal areas: Heatwave conditions are declared at 37°C.
• Hill regions: A heatwave is recorded when temperatures exceed 30°C.

Since 2024, the IMD has also introduced two additional categories to assess heat stress:

1. Hot and humid conditions: Declared when temperatures are 3°C above normal and humidity levels are high.
2. Warm nights: Occur when nighttime temperatures remain above 40°C, with a 4.5–6.4°C rise above normal. If the increase exceeds 6.4°C, it is classified as a very warm night.

Between February 25 and March 2, hot and humid conditions were reported in Maharashtra’s Konkan coast, Goa, and Gujarat. Warm nights were recorded in Odisha and Jharkhand on March 15.

Why Is This Happening?

A massive high-pressure system (anticyclone) over the Indian Ocean and subcontinent is driving this early heat. Over the Arabian Sea, this system is pulling hot, dry air from the northwest toward coastal regions, causing temperatures to spike. While it remains unclear whether the anticyclone itself is directly linked to climate change, scientists agree that rising global temperatures are intensifying its effects.

The Middle East, northern Arabian Sea, and northwestern India have all experienced accelerated warming in recent decades. This trend, combined with local weather patterns, is making heatwaves more intense and frequent. Experts emphasize that global warming acts as a “force multiplier,” amplifying natural weather events into extreme conditions.

Health and Environmental Risks

Prolonged exposure to extreme heat—especially when nighttime temperatures remain high—raises the risk of heat-related illnesses and fatalities. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, and outdoor workers, are particularly at risk. Agriculture is also under threat, as excessive heat and water shortages can damage crops and livestock.

Looking Ahead

As global temperatures continue to rise, India is expected to experience more frequent and severe heatwaves. Scientists warn that without urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such events could become the new normal. Adapting to this reality will require improved early warning systems, heat-resistant infrastructure, and policies to protect at-risk communities.

In short, India’s early 2025 heatwaves serve as a stark reminder of how climate change is reshaping weather patterns, endangering lives, and challenging the country’s ability to adapt.