India is battling one of its harshest summer spells of 2026, with 97 of the world’s 100 hottest cities recorded in the country on Thursday afternoon. The intense heatwave has gripped northern, central, and eastern India, pushing temperatures beyond 45°C and triggering health concerns across several states.
According to global weather tracking platform AQI.in, Odisha’s Balangir emerged as the hottest city in the world at 48°C around 2:50 PM IST. Cities across Odisha, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Telangana also featured prominently on the global hottest cities chart.
The extreme temperatures, combined with low humidity levels in many regions, have created dangerous outdoor conditions and increased the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion.
Balangir Becomes World’s Hottest City at 48°C
The global top-100 hottest cities list was overwhelmingly dominated by Indian locations. Alongside Balangir, several cities reported scorching afternoon temperatures:
- Sasaram – 48°C
- Varanasi – 47°C
- Muzaffarnagar – 46°C
- Ayodhya – 46°C
- Patiala – 46°C
- Warangal – 46°C
- Haridwar – 46°C
Other major cities including Chandigarh, Agra and Gwalior also recorded severe heatwave conditions.
Only three cities from Nepal appeared in the top-100 list, highlighting the scale of India’s ongoing heat crisis.
IMD Issues Severe Heatwave Warning Across India
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast “heatwave to severe heatwave conditions” across large parts of northern and eastern India until May 27.
Several states are witnessing daytime temperatures 4°C to 6°C above normal levels. The IMD declares a heatwave when temperatures cross 40°C in plains and remain significantly above seasonal averages, or when temperatures touch 45°C or higher.
In coastal Odisha, hot and humid conditions are adding to public discomfort. Bhubaneswar recorded a dangerous early morning Heat Index of 44°C due to extremely high humidity levels.
Heatwave Triggers Health Emergencies
Hospitals in multiple states are reporting rising cases of dehydration, diarrhoea, heat exhaustion, and suspected heatstroke.
According to a Reuters report, Andhra Pradesh has recorded more than 300 suspected heat-related illness cases between March and May 2026. Health officials warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to organ failure and other life-threatening complications.
Authorities have advised residents to:
- Avoid outdoor activities between 11 AM and 4 PM
- Drink water frequently
- Wear loose cotton clothing
- Avoid direct sunlight whenever possible
- Check on elderly people, children, and vulnerable individuals regularly
Water Shortages and Power Demand Rise
The ongoing heatwave has also increased pressure on electricity and water supply systems across India.
Reports from Gujarat indicate growing water shortages, while several states are experiencing record power demand due to continuous use of air conditioners and cooling appliances.
Experts say the prolonged heatwave is being intensified by climate change, urban heat buildup, and delayed pre-monsoon rainfall activity.
Why India Is Experiencing Extreme Heat in 2026
Weather experts attribute the severe temperatures to a combination of:
- Strong high-pressure systems trapping heat
- Delayed western disturbances
- Dry winds sweeping across north and central India
- Reduced cloud cover and rainfall activity
- Climate change-driven temperature rise
Environmental scientists have warned that such extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and longer-lasting across South Asia.
