India’s Hottest Month on Record

India experienced its hottest month in 125 years. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported an average temperature of 22.04°C. This month was also one of the driest, with rainfall less than half of the normal levels. The situation was particularly severe in Central and South India, while the East, Northeast, and Northwest regions fared slightly better. Experts attribute this alarming trend to climate change and local weather patterns.

Temperature Trends

February 2025 recorded maximum temperatures averaging 29.07°C. This was the second-highest maximum since 1901. The minimum temperature also reached an all-time high of 15.02°C. Central India faced the most temperature rise, with an anomaly of 1.94°C above normal.

Rainfall Deficiency

The country saw a dramatic 59% deficit in rainfall during the winter months of January and February. Central India reported an 89.3% deficiency. Cumulative rainfall in February was only 50.2 mm, marking it as the fifth lowest since 2001 and the eighteenth lowest since 1901.

Impact of Climate Change

Experts indicate that the rise in temperatures correlates strongly with climate change. Former IMD director K J Ramesh noted that the impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly evident. In 2024, average monthly temperatures were consistently 1.5°C above normal, signalling a concerning trend.

Heatwave Predictions

The IMD forecasted an above-normal number of heatwave days from March to May 2025. States expected to experience these heatwaves include Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and others. The severity of these conditions raises concerns about urban heat and its impact on vulnerable cities.

Urban Vulnerability

Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru are particularly at risk due to inadequate infrastructure. Anjal Prakash, a climate policy expert, stressed the need for urgent climate action and innovative urban planning to mitigate heat risks.

Strategies for Mitigation

To combat the rising temperatures and their effects, experts recommend sustainable urban planning, increasing green cover, and improving water management systems. These strategies are essential for enhancing resilience in rapidly urbanising areas.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of climate change on India’s weather patterns in recent years.
2. Estimate the role of urban planning in mitigating the effects of climate change in Indian cities.
3. Point out the significance of rainfall patterns in agriculture and food security in India.
4. What is the phenomenon of urban heat islands? How do they affect the temperature of cities?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of climate change on India’s weather patterns in recent years.

1. India has witnessed increasing average temperatures, with February 2025 recorded as the hottest month in 125 years.
2. Significant rainfall deficits, such as a 59% drop in winter rainfall, have been observed, especially in Central India.
3. Climate change has intensified heatwaves, with predictions of above-normal heatwave days in upcoming months.
4. Local factors, including the absence of western disturbances, have exacerbated the impacts of climate change on weather patterns.
5. Experts emphasize the urgent need for climate action and adaptive measures to mitigate these effects.

2. Estimate the role of urban planning in mitigating the effects of climate change in Indian cities.

1. Effective urban planning can reduce heat vulnerability by incorporating green spaces and sustainable architecture.
2. Improved infrastructure can enhance resilience against extreme weather, such as heatwaves and flooding.
3. Urban planning can facilitate better water management systems to cope with erratic rainfall patterns.
4. Innovative designs can help cities manage urban heat islands, reducing overall temperatures in urban areas.
5. Community engagement and awareness are crucial for implementing effective urban planning strategies.

3. Point out the significance of rainfall patterns in agriculture and food security in India.

1. Rainfall is critical for crop production, with erratic patterns leading to reduced agricultural yields.
2. Deficits in rainfall, like the 59% drop recorded, directly threaten food security and farmer livelihoods.
3. Seasonal rainfall patterns are vital for planning planting and harvesting cycles in agriculture.
4. Inconsistent rainfall can lead to droughts, impacting both crop diversity and food supply stability.
5. About rainfall trends helps in developing strategies for irrigation and water management in agriculture.

4. What is the phenomenon of urban heat islands? How do they affect the temperature of cities?

1. Urban heat islands (UHIs) occur when urban areas experience higher temperatures than their rural surroundings due to human activities.
2. Factors contributing to UHIs include concrete surfaces, reduced vegetation, and waste heat from buildings and vehicles.
3. UHIs can lead to increased energy consumption, elevated emissions, and worsened air quality in cities.
4. They exacerbate heat-related health issues, especially in vulnerable populations during heatwaves.
5. Mitigating UHIs involves increasing green spaces, using reflective materials, and enhancing urban design.