Last Updated:March 18, 2025, 11:20 IST

Multiple states, including Jharkhand, Karnataka, West Bengal, Odisha, and Maharashtra, are facing a severe heatwave with soaring temperatures.

Several states across India, including Jharkhand, Karnataka, West Bengal, Odisha, and Maharashtra, are experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring beyond normal levels. Many areas have recorded temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius, prompting officials to issue heatwave alerts and safety advisories.

The unusually early arrival of extreme heat can be linked to various factors, including climate change, shifting weather patterns, the influence of El Nino, rapid urbanisation, and widespread deforestation. Normally, India’s pre-monsoon season, spanning from March to May, brings intermittent thunderstorms and rainfall that help moderate rising temperatures. However, when pre-monsoon showers are scarce or significantly delayed, heat continues to build up over time, creating favourable conditions for early and prolonged heatwaves. This combination of environmental and meteorological factors has contributed to the intensifying heat conditions seen across multiple regions.

In Jharkhand, intense heat has impacted seven districts, with Chaibasa in West Singhbhum experiencing the highest temperature at 41°C—7.6 degrees above the seasonal norm. Other affected regions include Daltonganj (40.7°C), Bokaro Thermal (40.1°C), and Jamshedpur (40°C). Ranchi, the state capital, recorded 37°C, surpassing the average by 6.1 degrees. According to the Times of India, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Yellow Alert for Seraikela-Kharswan, East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, Dhanbad, and Bokaro for March 16. However, relief is anticipated from March 19, with the possibility of rain and thunderstorms.

North Karnataka is also reeling under extreme heat, with Ainapur Hobli village in Kalaburagi registering the state’s highest temperature at 42.8°C. Other districts such as Raichur, Bidar, Bagalkote, Yadgir, and Vijayapura have also recorded temperatures exceeding 40°C.

In West Bengal, severe heatwave conditions are affecting districts such as Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, Bankura, Paschim Bardhaman, and Birbhum. Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 26.3°C—3.7 degrees above normal—while the maximum temperature reached 34.1°C, five degrees higher than usual. The heatwave is expected to continue until March 18, with possible relief in the form of rain or thunderstorms after March 20.

Odisha is also facing sweltering heat, with Jharsuguda recording 41.8°C on Friday. The IMD has issued heatwave warnings for districts such as Sambalpur and Mayurbhanj. Other areas, including Angul, Bolangir, and Titlagarh, have also seen temperatures rise beyond 40°C.

Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region is battling scorching conditions, with Chandrapur registering 41.4°C on Saturday. Other places, including Bramhapuri, Solapur, and Wardha, have also experienced temperatures exceeding 41°C.

How to Protect Yourself from the Heat

Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks as they can lead to dehydration.

Wear Light Clothing – Choose loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton and light colours to reflect heat.

Avoid Direct Sunlight – Stay indoors during peak heat hours (12 PM – 4 PM). If you must go out, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Use Cooling Measures – Take cool showers, apply wet cloths to your neck and wrists, and stay in air-conditioned or well-ventilated spaces.

Modify Your Diet – Eat light meals rich in fruits and vegetables. Avoid heavy, spicy, and oily foods that can raise body temperature.

Limit Physical Activity – Reduce strenuous outdoor activities and exercise during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.

Location :

Delhi, India, India