(MENAFN- Live Mint) IMD Update: Northwest India is set to experience a significantly hotter summer, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting nearly double the usual number of heatwave days. The region, which typically records five to six heatwave days in a season, may now face 10 to 12, IM scientist Soma Sen Roy told the ANI.

"We are expecting slightly above-normal heatwave conditions, especially over West and Central India. Generally, Northwest India sees around 5 to 6 heatwave days. This year, we expect 10 to 12 days, which is double the normal," Roy explained.

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However, she clarified that this is a seasonal forecast and does not imply that all days will be hotter than usual. The IMD will continue updating predictions with extended-range and daily forecasts for more localised accuracy.

IMD warns of heatwave days: What it means for India

The IMD did not confirm whether this summer will surpass 2024's record-breaking heat. Last year, India recorded an alarming 554 heatwave days, making it the hottest year in the country's history.

According to the IMD, a heatwav is declared when the maximum temperature in the plains reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius or rises five degrees above normal.

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The Seasonal Heat Outlook for March to May 2025, released on February 28, warns that most of India will see above-normal maximum and minimum temperatures. However, some southernmost parts of Peninsular India and isolated areas in the Northeast may experience near-normal or slightly below-normal temperatures.

"During the season (March-May), above-normal minimum temperatures are likely over most parts of the country except some isolated southernmost regions of Peninsular India where normal minimum temperatures are likely," the forecast stated.

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