Heatwave Explained: What It Means and How to Beat It
When the mercury shoots past 35°C and the air feels like a hot oven, you’re in a heatwave. In India, this isn’t just a hot day – it’s a sustained spell of high temperatures that can strain health, power grids, and even crop yields. If you’ve felt the sting of a Delhi heatwave or watched sweats pour down at a cricket match, you know it’s more than uncomfortable; it can be dangerous.
Why Heatwaves Happen in India
India’s summer heat is driven by a mix of factors. The sun’s direct rays over the sub‑continent, dry air from the west, and a lagging monsoon all stack up. When the monsoon stalls, as we saw in late August 2025, temperatures can linger above 35°C for days. Cities like Delhi‑NCR, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan often report heat indexes above 45°C, making everyday activities feel exhausting.
Real‑World Impacts You’ve Seen
Recent posts on PBC News show heatwave effects in action. The August 27 forecast warned of 35.6°C in Delhi‑NCR with 65% humidity, followed by scattered showers – a classic pattern of scorching days and sudden rain. In Mumbai, even festive events like the Lalbaugcha Raja Ganpati Visarjan had to manage crowd comfort under high heat. Heat adds stress to traffic, power demand, and public health services. Vulnerable groups – kids, seniors, and outdoor workers – are especially at risk for heat‑related illnesses.
Power cuts are another side effect. When air‑conditioners run nonstop, grids can overload, leading to blackouts that make the heat feel even worse. Farmers also feel the pinch; crops stressed by heat need more water, and a delayed monsoon can push yields down.
Even sports aren’t immune. The IPL opener at Eden Gardens faced rain threats, but had to juggle heat on previous days, impacting player stamina and spectator comfort.
How to Stay Safe During a Heatwave
Here are practical steps you can take the next time the temperature spikes:
- Hydrate early. Drink water before you feel thirsty. Aim for at least 2‑3 liters a day if you’re outdoors.
- Dress light. Loose cotton clothes reflect heat and let sweat evaporate.
- Seek shade. Stay under trees, canopies, or in air‑conditioned rooms during peak hours (12 pm‑4 pm).
- Plan activities. If you must be outside, schedule work early sunrise or late evening.
- Watch for symptoms. Dizziness, rapid heartbeat, headache, or nausea can signal heat exhaustion. Cool down with a cold shower and seek medical help if needed.
- Protect pets. Dogs and cats can overheat fast. Keep them indoors and provide fresh water.
Community centers and local authorities often open cooling stations during extreme heat. Keep an eye on official alerts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) – they issue orange or red warnings when heatwaves hit.
What to Expect in the Coming Weeks
Based on the latest IMD outlook, Delhi‑NCR will stay hot through the first week of September, with temperatures slowly dropping as the monsoon gains strength. Expect occasional showers that can bring brief relief but also raise humidity, making the heat feel stickier. Keep your phone alerts on for any sudden changes, especially if you’re traveling or have outdoor plans.
In summary, heatwaves are a regular part of India’s climate, but they don’t have to catch you off guard. Stay hydrated, dress right, and follow official updates. By taking simple steps, you can protect yourself and your loved ones while the sun does its thing.
