The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that 2024 was the hottest year in India since records began in 1901. This extreme heat was part of a global trend, as 2024 was also declared the hottest year worldwide. The report highlighted significant temperature anomalies across multiple seasons and regions, signaling the urgency of addressing climate change.

Record-Breaking Temperatures

In 2024, the average land surface air temperature in India was +0.65°C above the long-term average (1991-2020). This surpassed the previous record of +0.54°C set in 2016. The temperature anomaly was consistently above normal throughout the year, except for March.

Seasonal Temperature Anomalies

• Winter (January-February): +0.37°C anomaly
• Pre-Monsoon (March-May): +0.56°C anomaly
• Monsoon (June-September): +0.71°C anomaly
• Post-Monsoon (October-December): +0.83°C anomaly

Notably, October recorded the highest temperature anomaly of +1.23°C, signaling an intense post-monsoon heat surge.

Geographical Heatwaves

Heatwaves affected various regions at different times:

• April: Heatwaves hit the eastern coast.
• May: Northern-western India experienced intense heat.
• June: Northern and central India recorded extreme temperatures.

In some regions, temperature anomalies exceeded 4°C, marking unusual and extreme heat for this time of year.

Monthly Temperature Records

• October saw the highest monthly anomaly of +1.23°C.
• November recorded the third highest anomaly since 1901, with +0.84°C.
• July and September had anomalies of +0.70°C and +0.76°C, respectively.

Minimum Temperature Trends

• July: +0.89°C
• August: +0.59°C
• September: +0.99°C
• October: +1.78°C

The year also saw February record a high anomaly of +0.79°C, signaling unusually warm minimum temperatures during winter months.

Cyclonic Activity

In 2024, four cyclonic storms formed over the northern Indian Ocean, including Remal and Dana, which were classified as severe storms. These storms contributed to extreme weather events like heavy rainfall, floods, and landslides in various regions.

Extreme Weather Events

2024 was a year marked by various extreme weather events across India, including:

• Severe storms and cyclones
• Droughts
• Heavy rainfall, leading to floods and landslides

These events highlighted the growing frequency of extreme weather in the face of global climate change.

Conclusion

The unprecedented heat of 2024 in India underscores the growing urgency of addressing climate change and preparing for extreme weather conditions. With rising temperatures, heatwaves, and the increasing frequency of cyclonic storms, India faces a critical challenge in managing the impacts of climate change on its weather patterns, economy, and communities.