Climate change, global warming, and a missing Western Disturbance push April temperatures to record-breaking highs across North India.
North India Sizzles: April Heat Wave Turns Deadly Early in the Season
North India is currently reeling under an intense heat wave, with temperatures crossing 41°C across multiple states. What’s more alarming is that even hilly regions like Himachal Pradesh, traditionally cooler this time of year, are also heating up significantly.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this extreme weather is expected to persist for at least the next two days, putting millions at risk of heat-related health issues.
Delhi & NCR: Capital Under Heat Siege
In the national capital Delhi, Monday saw the maximum temperature soar past 40°C for the first time this year. The IMD issued a yellow alert for Delhi and surrounding NCR cities, warning of severe heat stress and health hazards for vulnerable populations.
Intermittent hot winds at speeds of 8–14 km/h made conditions even more unbearable, especially for outdoor workers and school-going children.
Uttar Pradesh: Jhansi, Hamirpur Hit 42.2°C
Uttar Pradesh is among the worst-hit states. On Monday:
Jhansi and Hamirpur recorded a blazing 42.2°C
Hardoi, Kanpur, Varanasi, Sonbhadra, Prayagraj, Banda, and Agra also exceeded 40°C
Lucknow touched 39.2°C, with many districts issued heatwave alerts for Tuesday and Wednesday.
A minor drizzle is forecasted in parts of eastern UP, but it’s unlikely to bring major relief.
Himachal Pradesh Also Heating Up
Even in Himachal Pradesh, where cooler climates prevail, the heat wave has breached norms:
Dharamshala, Bhuntar, and Sundarnagar saw temperatures near or above 31°C
Una recorded 36.8°C, four degrees above normal
Temperatures in 14 Himachal towns crossed the 30°C mark
The hill state is 6–7°C above normal, raising serious concerns about Himalayan climate patterns.
Why April Is So Hot This Year
Meteorologists have pointed to multiple overlapping factors behind this abnormal April heat:
Climate change and global warming accelerating temperature rise
90% less rainfall in March and zero rainfall in April
Missing Western Disturbance, which usually brings cooler air and rain
South-easterly hot winds from Rajasthan fuelling extreme heat in neighboring regions
📌 Did You Know? According to IMD, when temperatures exceed 40°C and are 4.5–6.5°C above normal, it officially qualifies as a heat wave.
Expert Warning: Expect More Heatwaves Ahead
Meteorological experts warn that this early onset of heatwaves could lead to longer and more dangerous summer spells.
📣 Callout: Precautions You Should Take During a Heatwave
Stay indoors between 12 PM to 4 PM
Hydrate frequently — drink water even if you’re not thirsty
Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes
Avoid strenuous activities during peak sun hours
📝 Conclusion
This early April heat wave is not just a weather event but a warning sign of climate instability. With temperatures exceeding 41°C in both plains and hills, urgent action is needed on climate resilience, public awareness, and sustainable weather mitigation policies.
