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With the onset of summer 2025, temperatures across India are rising rapidly, prompting the Centre to issue an urgent advisory to states regarding the preparedness of health facilities for heatstroke cases and related illnesses. Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava has instructed state health departments to implement ‘Heat-Health’ action plans and ensure proper response mechanisms are in place.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast an alarming increase in heatwave days, particularly in Northwest India. The government has emphasized the need for adequate drinking water supply and functional cooling systems in hospitals to manage severe heat-related conditions.
Heatwave Intensifies Across India
Delhi Records Scorching Temperatures
The national capital, Delhi, has recorded some of the highest temperatures in the country, with the mercury reaching 40.5°C on Wednesday, significantly above normal levels. Ridge in Delhi reported 40.1°C, 6.3°C above the usual range, while the minimum temperature on Thursday stood at 19.5°C, which was 1.4°C higher than the season’s average.
Maharashtra Sizzles Under Extreme Heat
Several cities in Maharashtra have recorded temperatures above 40°C. Akola was the hottest in the state at 42.0°C, followed by Brahmapuri at 41.9°C and Chandrapur at 41.2°C. Cities like Jalgaon, Amravati, and Nagpur saw maximum temperatures between 40.0°C and 40.4°C.
Madhya Pradesh Witnesses Unusual Heat Rise
Hoshangabad in Madhya Pradesh recorded 40.9°C, a rise of 3.9°C above normal. Shivpuri experienced a 5.7°C surge, reaching 40.0°C. Other regions such as Damoh, Guna, and Nowgong also reported temperatures touching 40.0°C, with deviations ranging from 4.1°C to 4.6°C.
Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan See Surging Heat Levels
In Uttar Pradesh, Prayagraj recorded 41.6°C, while Jhansi saw 41.1°C with an increase of 5.2°C. Kanpur hit 40.0°C. Rajasthan’s Chittorgarh recorded 40.5°C.
Chhattisgarh and Telangana Experience Unusual Heat Spikes
Chhattisgarh’s Rajnandgaon saw a significant temperature rise to 41.0°C, with a deviation of 7.8°C. Telangana’s Nizamabad hit 40.1°C, while Andhra Pradesh’s Nandyal recorded 40.0°C.
IMD Warns of Rising Heat in Delhi
IMD defines a heatwave as when the maximum temperature in plains reaches at least 40°C or is five degrees above normal. North India, including Delhi, is expected to witness further temperature increases of 1-2°C in the coming days.
Odisha Issues Heatwave Alerts
Odisha has issued a heatwave alert for the next three days. IMD predicts a temperature rise of 2-4°C before stabilizing. A ‘Yellow’ alert has been issued for Sambalpur and Boudh districts for Friday. On Saturday, warnings extend to Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Sonepur, Boudh, Bolangir, and Kalahandi, while Sunday’s alert includes Bargarh and Sundargarh as well.
Government’s Response and Precautionary Measures
The Centre has urged all states to ensure:
- Implementation of ‘Heat-Health’ action plans
- Establishment of heatstroke management units
- Emergency treatment readiness for heat-related illnesses
- Availability of drinking water at healthcare facilities
- Proper functioning of cooling appliances in critical areas
With heatwaves expected to double in 2025, authorities are on high alert to mitigate health risks and ensure public safety. Citizens are advised to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak hours.
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