India’s Hottest February Month Ever

February 2025 shattered climate records in India, becoming the hottest February month in 125 years. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported an average temperature of 22.04°C, making it an exceptionally warm month. Alongside the heat, it was also one of the driest, with rainfall levels dropping to less than half of the normal average. While Central and South India suffered the most, the East and Northeast regions experienced slightly better conditions.

Hottest February Month and Rising Temperatures

A significant temperature anomaly of +1.49°C was recorded, signaling a worrying trend. The highest temperature reached 29.07°C, making it the second-highest for February since 1901. Central India bore the brunt of the heat, with temperatures soaring 1.94°C above normal. These trends underline the intensifying impact of climate change on India’s weather patterns.

Severe Rainfall Shortage

The rainfall deficit for the month stood at a staggering 59%, with Central India experiencing an alarming 89.3% drop in precipitation. The total cumulative rainfall for February was only 50.2 mm, making it one of the driest Februarys since 2001 and ranking 18th lowest since 1901. This severe lack of rainfall worsened the extreme heat conditions across the country.

The Climate Change Connection

Meteorologists point to climate change as a major driver of these extreme weather patterns. The absence of sufficient western disturbances, which typically bring winter rain, contributed to the dry and unusually warm conditions. This follows a trend from 2024, which also recorded significantly high temperatures, averaging 1.5°C above normal throughout the year.

What Lies Ahead?

Looking forward, the IMD has issued heatwave warnings for March to May 2025. States such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh are expected to experience severe and prolonged heatwaves. This growing trend of extreme heat highlights the urgent need for climate action to mitigate rising temperature risks.

Urban Areas at High Risk

Major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru are particularly vulnerable to heat stress due to rapid urbanization and inadequate cooling infrastructure. Rising temperatures are accelerating the urban heat island effect, making these cities even hotter. Experts emphasize the need for sustainable urban planning, increased green cover, and better water management to combat these challenges.

The Need for Urgent Action

Immediate action is necessary to protect communities from rising temperatures. Strengthening early warning systems can help people prepare for extreme weather events. Heat advisories, for example, can encourage residents to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, reducing health risks.

The record-breaking February 2025 serves as a stark reminder of the accelerating climate crisis, reinforcing the urgent need for sustainable policies and proactive climate mitigation efforts.