20 May 2026
Introduction:
India recorded 97 of the world’s 100 hottest cities on 22 May 2026 during a heatwave across northern, central and eastern India. Balangir in Odisha touched 48°C, while Sasaram in Bihar also reached 48°C and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh recorded 47°C.
Heatwave in India
A heatwave is a period of abnormally high temperature that lasts for several days and is classified in India by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) using temperature thresholds and departure from normal conditions. The IMD uses terms such as heatwave, severe heatwave and extreme heat conditions for weather alerts in different regions.
IMD Forecast and Regional Spread
The IMD forecast heatwave to severe heatwave conditions across large parts of northern and eastern India until 27 May 2026. The affected belt included states in northern, central and eastern India, where daytime temperatures remained above seasonal norms in several districts.
Humidity, Heat Stress and Health Effects
Humidity levels in several cities were between 6 and 8 per cent on 22 May 2026. Low humidity and high temperature together increase heat stress, dehydration risk and the likelihood of heat-related illness. Andhra Pradesh recorded 325 suspected heatstroke cases between 1 March and 19 May 2026. Hospitals in several states reported cases of dehydration and other heat-related illnesses during the same period.
Global Hotspots and City Rankings
AQI.in listed Balangir as the hottest city globally on 22 May 2026. Sasaram, Varanasi and several other Indian cities also appeared in the global top 100 hottest cities list on the same day. Only three cities from Nepal, namely Dhangadhi, Nepalgunj and Lumbini Sanskritik, appeared in the top 100 hottest cities list on 22 May 2026. Earlier on the morning of 22 May 2026, all 50 of the world’s hottest cities were in India.
Important Facts for Exams
- The India Meteorological Department is the national agency for weather forecasting and heatwave alerts in India.
- Heatwave conditions in India are common in pre-monsoon months, especially from April to June.
- Odisha, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are among the states that often record high summer temperatures.
- Heatstroke is a medical emergency linked to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and dehydration.