Bengaluru braces for an unusually hot summer, warmer than Delhi: IMD

Bengaluru is experiencing an unexpected spike in temperatures this February, with the mercury soaring past Delhi's by nearly 9 degrees. On February 17, the city recorded a high of 35.9°C, while Delhi remained significantly cooler at 27°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has now predicted that Bengaluru will likely endure a hotter summer than the national capital in 2025, marking a significant weather shift for the city known for its mild climate.

Why is Bengaluru Heating Up So Early?

Typically, summer in Bengaluru begins in early March, but this year, temperatures have started rising in mid-February. IMD data shows that the city's temperatures in February 2025 are 2.7°C higher than those recorded in February 2024, signaling a clear deviation from past climate patterns.

The sharp rise has positioned Bengaluru among Karnataka's hottest regions, alongside Raichur and Kalaburagi. According to IMD-Bengaluru Director CS Patil, the city is expected to experience a significantly hotter summer than last year. He also cautioned that heatwave conditions could develop in parts of northern Karnataka, though Bengaluru itself is not at immediate risk.

What’s Driving Bengaluru’s Unusual Heat?

Experts cite multiple reasons behind Bengaluru’s rising temperatures:

Absence of Northern Winds: Normally, northern winds help keep Bengaluru’s climate cool. However, their absence this season has contributed to the warming trend.

La Niña Effect: The ongoing La Niña phenomenon, which leads to oceanic cooling in the equatorial Pacific, is disrupting global weather patterns, including Bengaluru’s.

What Can Residents Expect?

While heatwaves are expected in parts of Karnataka, Bengaluru’s rising temperatures remain a concern due to the deviation from its usual climate. The city has been recording higher February temperatures than Delhi for the past few years, and this trend appears to be continuing.

Despite the hot days, Bengaluru’s evenings still offer some relief, with temperatures hovering around 17°C. However, as the summer progresses, residents should prepare for sustained high temperatures and take necessary precautions to stay cool and hydrated.