India Sees 0.9°C Temperature Rise in Last Decade: New Climate Study

India Records 0.9°C Temperature Rise Over the Past Decade

A major climate assessment by multiple Indian research institutions has found that India’s average temperature rose by approximately 0.9°C between 2015 and 2024 , marking one of the sharpest decadal increases recorded to date. The findings reveal a worrying escalation in heat-related extremes, monsoon variability and coastal vulnerabilities, intensifying the call for urgent climate adaptation measures.

Heat Stress Rising Across Regions

The study shows that the hottest day of the year has warmed by 1.5–2°C in western and northeastern India since the mid-20th century. The frequency of heatwaves and warm days has climbed consistently, with data showing a rise of 5–10 additional warm days per decade . Distinctive patterns have emerged: Himalayan regions are warming faster than the national average, while plains and coastal belts are seeing amplified heat stress and rainfall irregularity.

Regional Impacts and Extreme Weather Intensification

In the Hindukush Himalayas, accelerated glacier melt is threatening water supplies for millions. The Indo-Gangetic plains report worsening heat stress combined with declining monsoon rainfall. Western and northwestern India are experiencing more warm nights and intense rainfall bursts, while coastal regions—especially the western coast—are battling rising sea levels and more powerful cyclones.

Risk of Compound Climate Extremes

Researchers warn that the increasing overlap of extreme events, such as heatwaves occurring alongside droughts, could significantly disrupt agriculture, water management and public health systems. Climate projections suggest that these compound extremes will intensify further as global temperatures rise.

Exam Oriented Facts

• India’s average temperature rose ~0.9°C from 2015–2024 .

• Warm days increase: 5–10 days per decade .

• Tropical Indian Ocean warming rate: 0.12°C per decade (one of the fastest globally).

• Marine heatwaves may reach ~200 days/year by 2050 .