The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that India will experience above-normal temperatures from April to June, with central, eastern, and northwestern regions likely to witness a surge in heatwave days. The rising heat is expected to increase water shortages and put immense pressure on the power grid as air conditioner usage spikes.
IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated on Monday that multiple areas could experience more heatwave days than usual. “From April to June, most parts of north and east India, central India, and the plains of northwest India are expected to witness two to four more heatwave days than normal,” he said.
Severe Heatwaves Expected Across Multiple States
Northwest India is likely to face double the usual number of heatwave days, with regions such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and northern Karnataka and Tamil Nadu expected to be the most affected.
While most regions will see higher-than-normal maximum temperatures, some parts of western and eastern India may experience normal conditions. Minimum temperatures, however, are projected to be above normal across the country.
Typically, India records four to seven heatwave days between April and June. This year, experts predict a significant increase in those numbers.
Economic Impact of Rising Heat
The extreme temperatures could also have economic consequences. Experts warn that peak electricity demand may rise by 9-10% this summer due to increased reliance on cooling systems.
In 2023, India’s peak electricity demand exceeded 250 gigawatts (GW) on May 30, surpassing projections by 6.3%. This year, government estimates suggest that peak demand could reach 270 GW. To prevent power shortages, policymakers have advised power plants to avoid maintenance shutdowns during the summer months.
Coal consumption is also expected to rise to meet electricity demand, while the use of diesel generators may increase in areas facing blackouts. Additionally, fuel demand may rise as people travel to hill stations to escape the heat.
Concerns Over Crop Damage
The forecast follows an unusually warm March, raising fears of damage to wheat crops currently being harvested. A drop in wheat production could push the government to reduce or remove the 40% import duty on the grain. In 2022, India had already restricted wheat exports after the hottest March in over a century impacted yields.
With the possibility of another record-breaking summer ahead, authorities are focusing on ensuring adequate coal supplies and power distribution while preparing for potential health and economic challenges caused by the extreme heat.
Sources By Agencies
