Hottest and Driest Month in India

February 2025 marked climatic event in India, being the hottest February recorded in the last 125 years. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the average temperature reached 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 and Northeast regions fared slightly better.

Temperature Records and Trends

February 2025’s temperature anomaly was 1.49°C above normal. The maximum temperature recorded was 29.07°C, the second-highest since 1901. Central India faced the most extreme conditions, with temperatures rising 1.94°C above normal. These records highlight a troubling trend of increasing temperatures linked to climate change.

Rainfall Deficiency

The month saw rainfall deficit of 59%. Central India experienced an alarming 89.3% shortage in rainfall. With only 50.2 mm of cumulative rainfall, February 2025 was one of the driest months since 2001, ranking 18th lowest since 1901. This lack of precipitation exacerbated the heat conditions across the country.

Impact of Climate Change

Experts attribute these extreme weather patterns to climate change. The absence of adequate western disturbances during February contributed to the dry and warm conditions. The previous year, 2024, was also noted for high temperatures, averaging 1.5°C above normal throughout the year.

Future Projections

The IMD forecasts predict an above-normal number of heatwave days from March to May 2025. Regions such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh are expected to face severe heatwaves. The ongoing trend calls for urgent climate action to address the increasing heat risks.

Urban Vulnerability

Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru are particularly vulnerable to heatwaves. Urban areas are heating faster and lack the infrastructure to cope with extreme conditions. Experts advocate for sustainable urban planning, increased green cover, and improved water management systems to mitigate the impacts of rising temperatures.

Need for Immediate Action

Experts stress the importance of immediate action to counter the effects of climate change. Enhancing early warning systems can help communities prepare for extreme weather. For instance, alerts about unusually hot conditions can discourage outdoor activities during peak heat periods.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2025

Category: Environment Current Affairs