February was the warmest in India in 125 yrs, IMD predicts hotter 3 months ahead

India is experiencing a heatwave that is unprecedented. In the midst of winter, there has been increased heat in most parts of the country, thanks to climate change caused mainly by human actions. Heat in the month of February has broken all records of the past 125 years. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) further warns that summers will be hotter than normal going forwards. As per the IMD, February 2025 was the hottest recorded in the country since weather records began in 1901.

Hotter than normal temp in the country

As per the Met department, most parts of the country are likely to experience hotter than normal temperatures from March to May. There is also a possibility of a heat wave during this period. January of this year was the third hottest month after the year 1901. Earlier, 2024 was declared the hottest year on record since 1901. The increasing heat in the winter and the forecast of hotter than normal in March are giving sleepless nights to farmers. The heat will likely damage the wheat and mustard crops.

Record temperatures

The country has never witnessed such record hot temperatures in the past. In 5 out of the last 8 months, the minimum temperature has hit record levels. In the states where sowing was delayed, there has been a decrease in production due to heat.

IMD warning 

In its prediction from March to May, the IMD has warned that Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and North Karnataka will experience above normal temperatures. In March, the monthly maximum temperature is likely to be above normal in most parts of the country except some southern parts of peninsular India. The maximum temperature is likely to be below normal in the southern peninsular region.