IMD Forecasts Severe Heatwaves Across India in May 2025
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that May 2025 will be hotter than usual, with many parts of India experiencing more heatwave days.
Cities like Delhi, Barmer, Patna, Nagpur, and Ahmedabad have already seen very high temperatures in April. Barmer in Rajasthan recorded a scorching 46.4°C, one of the hottest temperatures so far this year.
According to IMD, states such as Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, West Bengal, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh will face more than normal heatwave days. Some places could see temperatures above 45°C for many days in a row.
This rise in temperature is part of a larger climate change issue, where summers are getting hotter and more dangerous each year.
Heatwaves Can Cause Serious Health Problems
Extreme heat is not just uncomfortable it can be very dangerous. Doctors and health experts warn that heat can cause:
- Heat cramps: Muscle pain due to loss of salt from sweating.
- Heat exhaustion: Weakness, heavy sweating, nausea, headache, and fainting.
- Heatstroke: A life-threatening condition where body temperature goes very high, leading to confusion, unconsciousness, or even death.
People most at risk include:
- Infants and young children
- Older people, especially those living alone
- Pregnant women
- People working outside, like farmers, construction workers, traffic police
- People with illnesses like asthma, heart problems, or diabetes
In many areas, especially rural places, workers are facing extreme heat with little protection. For example, brick kiln workers near Patna have reported working long hours in the sun with no proper food or rest. This increases their risk of heatstroke and dehydration.
Important Precautions to Follow During a Heatwave
To stay safe, everyone should follow these simple but important tips:
Drink water regularly
Don’t wait until you feel thirsty. Drink water often. You can also drink lemon water, buttermilk, ORS (oral rehydration solution), and fruit juices with a pinch of salt.
Avoid going out in the afternoon
Try to stay indoors between 12 PM and 3 PM, when the sun is strongest.
Wear cool and light clothes
Use cotton clothes that are loose and light in color. Cover your head with a scarf, cap, or umbrella when you go outside.
Keep your home cool
Close curtains during the day. Use fans, coolers, or air conditioning if possible. Let fresh air in during the evening or early morning.
Watch for warning signs
If someone feels dizzy, vomits, has muscle cramps, or faints take it seriously. Cool them down and get medical help.
Don’t leave children or pets in parked vehicles. The temperature inside cars can become deadly in just a few minutes.
Daily Life Tips to Beat the Summer Heat
Making small changes in your daily routine can help you feel better and avoid health problems:
Eat cooling foods
Include fruits like watermelon, cucumber, oranges, and coconut water. Avoid oily and spicy food. Eat smaller, lighter meals more often.
Change your exercise timing
Walk or exercise before 9 AM or after 6 PM. Try indoor activities like yoga, stretching, or home workouts.
Take frequent breaks during work
If you work outdoors, take rest breaks in the shade. Don’t work non-stop under the sun.
Use wet cloth or cold water to cool down
Splash water on your face and neck. Use a wet towel to wipe your hands, feet, and face.
Schools and Workplaces Need Heat Safety Plans Too
Schools, colleges, and offices can also take steps to protect students and workers:
- Shift school timings to morning hours
Allow students to wear comfortable clothes - Keep drinking water available at all times
- Allow flexible work hours for outdoor workers
- Provide shaded rest areas and water breaks
- Government and private offices should follow IMD alerts and take action early to avoid emergencies.
Be Ready and Help Each Other This Summer
This summer is going to be one of the hottest in recent years. But by staying alert, taking precautions, and supporting each other, we can stay safe.
Drink water, avoid too much sun, and protect children, the elderly, and people with health problems. If someone near you is feeling sick because of heat, help them immediately.Let’s face this hot season together with care, kindness, and awareness.
