Why heatwaves are becoming India’s new normal: A deep dive into what’s behind the scorching temperatures
India is experiencing intense heatwaves, with temperatures reaching up to 46°C in many areas. While El Nino can amplify heat conditions and disrupt monsoon patterns, experts state it's not the sole cause. Persistent high pressure and fewer western disturbances are identified as primary drivers of the extreme heat.
As heatwave conditions intensify across India, concerns around El Nino have returned. Experts say the climate phenomenon can influence global weather patterns, but it is not the direct cause of the extreme heat being seen in many parts of the country.
El Nino affects global weather and can influence rainfall, drought and extreme weather events across regions. In India, it is often linked to erratic monsoon patterns, which can disrupt agriculture and water availability.
Experts say this is one reason El Nino is watched closely whenever temperatures rise sharply.
Not entirely.
Experts say El Nino can amplify conditions that make heatwaves more severe, but it is not the direct reason behind the current heatwave conditions.
According to weather experts, fewer western disturbances and persistent high-pressure systems are among the key reasons driving the extreme heat.
Maximum temperatures in many parts of India have been ranging between 40°C and 46°C.
Some exceptions have seen even higher temperatures. Banda in east Uttar Pradesh recorded 45.6°C, among the highest maximum temperatures reported.
Experts expect an above-normal number of heatwave days in parts of:
This suggests prolonged heat stress in several regions over the coming months.
El Nino occurs when ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern Equatorial Pacific become warmer than usual.
This warming can affect winds, rainfall patterns and temperatures in different parts of the world.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and World Meteorological Organization (WMO) do not use the term 'Super El Nino' as part of a standard operational classification.
Experts say this year's El Nino may be a strong event, but a more confident forecast is likely only after April.
El Nino is often linked to:
While El Nino may worsen heatwave conditions, experts say it should not be seen as the sole cause of India's extreme heat.
For now, the stronger drivers remain persistent high pressure, fewer western disturbances and broader climate variability.
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