Severe heatwave grips India, becomes epicentre of global heat rankings

India is currently witnessing severe heatwave conditions across multiple regions, with 95 of the world’s 100 hottest cities located in the country, raising concerns over the impact of rising temperatures. According to data on global temperature trends, both in urban and rural areas, India is experiencing record-breaking heat, making it the epicentre of a global heatwave. Temperatures in many regions have surpassed 40 degrees Celsius, with some locations reaching close to 45 degrees Celsius, marking a trend towards increasingly intense pre-summer heat waves. The highest maximum temperature of 46.9°C was reported at Akola in Maharastra on Sunday. 

The highest maximum temperature of 46.9°C was reported at #Akola (VIDARBHA).#HeatWave conditions realised at a few places of Vidarbha, isolated pockets of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. pic.twitter.com/pHVFWoR9W8

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) April 26, 2026

Cities with rising temperatures soaring well above normal levels include Delhi, Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh, Nagpur and Akola in Maharashtra, Bhubaneswar in Odisha and Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, raising concerns over public health and safety. Amid the rising temperatures, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued advisories urging people to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. Extended hot days can lead to various impacts, including increased risk of health issues like heatstroke, higher electricity consumption and water shortages. The heatwave highlights concerns over climate change and extreme weather.  As higher-than-usual temperatures are expected to prevail over the next few days, authorities are likely to monitor the heat and call for caution against heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses.