Top 10 Hottest Cities in India’s formidable summer heat is an annual trial, but recent years have seen temperatures climb to alarming new heights, posing significant health risks and straining infrastructure. As 2025 unfolds, intense heatwaves have already placed several major urban centres under severe weather alerts, highlighting the critical need for awareness and preparedness. Based on recent meteorological data, historical trends, and current heatwave patterns, we present the definitive list of India’s top 10 hottest cities experiencing the most extreme temperatures this year.
1. Top 10 Hottest Cities: Phalodi, Rajasthan
Consistently claiming the top spot, Phalodi in the Thar Desert is synonymous with extreme heat. It holds India’s all-time high temperature record (51°C in 2016) and frequently breaches 48°C during peak summer (May-June). Arid conditions, minimal vegetation, and intense solar radiation make it unparalleled in its intensity. Residents endure searing winds and rely heavily on adaptive measures.
2. Top 10 Hottest Cities: Churu, Rajasthan
Another desert stronghold, Churu, is perpetually in the upper echelons of India’s hottest cities. Situated in the Shekhawati region, it regularly sees temperatures soar above 47°C. The dry, sandy landscape absorbs and radiates heat relentlessly, creating furnace-like conditions that challenge daily life and agriculture.
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3. Top 10 Hottest Cities: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
The iconic Golden City isn’t just a tourist marvel; it’s a crucible of heat. Deep in the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer experiences summer averages hovering around 45°C, with peaks easily hitting 48°C. While nights offer slight respite, the daytime sun is unforgiving, impacting tourism patterns and local livelihoods.
4. Top 10 Hottest Cities: Bikaner, Rajasthan
Completing Rajasthan’s dominance in the top 10 hottest cities, Bikaner faces harsh desert summers. Temperatures commonly exceed 46°C. The city’s historical adaptation through unique architecture (like latticework windows for cooling) is continually tested by the escalating intensity and duration of heatwaves.
5. Top 10 Hottest Cities: Delhi (NCR)
India’s bustling capital, currently under red alert, consistently ranks among the nation’s hottest cities. A potent mix of geographical location (away from major water bodies), dense urbanisation causing the “Urban Heat Island” effect (where concrete traps heat), high pollution levels, and significant humidity during pre-monsoon phases creates a dangerous cauldron. Temperatures often breach 45°C, feeling even higher due to humidity. Power grids and public health services face immense strain.
6. Top 10 Hottest Cities: Nagpur, Maharashtra
Known as the geographical centre of India, Nagpur earns its place among the top 10 hottest cities due to its inland location and tropical savanna climate. Summer temperatures frequently climb above 47°C. The city experiences distinct, intensely hot periods before the monsoon arrives, impacting daily routines significantly.
7. Top 10 Hottest Cities: Daltonganj, Jharkhand
Representing Eastern India’s heat extremes, Daltonganj frequently records among the highest temperatures in the region, often surpassing 46°C. Its location on the Chota Nagpur Plateau contributes to its dry, scorching summers. Access to reliable water and electricity becomes critical during peak heat.
8. Top 10 Hottest Cities: Ganganagar, Rajasthan
Sri Ganganagar, situated in northern Rajasthan near the Punjab and Haryana borders and the Thar Desert’s fringes, experiences extreme continental climate. Summers are long and intensely hot, with temperatures reliably exceeding 45°C and often touching 47°C, demanding robust adaptation strategies for its residents.
9. Top 10 Hottest Cities: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Gujarat’s largest city faces severe heat challenges. Located in a dry region, Ahmedabad frequently sees temperatures soar to 46°C. Compounding the problem is significant urbanisation and air pollution, amplifying the heat stress on its vast population. The city has pioneered heat action plans, crucial for mitigating health impacts.
10. Top 10 Hottest Cities: Chandrapur, Maharashtra
Rounding out this list of India’s hottest cities is Chandrapur, located in eastern Maharashtra. Known for its thermal power plants and forests, it also experiences fiercely hot summers, with temperatures consistently hitting 45-46°C. Industrial activity and local geography contribute to its high heat intensity.
The Heatwave Crisis: Beyond the List
This ranking of the top 10 hottest cities underscores a broader national crisis. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) routinely issues colour-coded alerts (Yellow, Amber, Red) for heatwaves, defined when temperatures significantly exceed the normal maximum for a region, especially if sustained. Delhi’s current red alert signifies a “very high likelihood” of developing heat-related illnesses and heatstroke for all age groups.
Key factors driving these extremes include:
Climate Change: Global warming is unequivocally increasing the frequency, intensity, and duration of heatwaves across India.
Urban Heat Island Effect: Rapid urbanisation with concrete, asphalt, reduced green cover, and waste heat from vehicles/ACs makes cities significantly hotter than surrounding rural areas (cities like Delhi exemplify this).
Geographical Vulnerability: Inland locations, proximity to deserts, and distance from cooling sea breezes naturally predispose areas like Rajasthan and parts of Central India to higher temperatures.
Staying Safe: Essential Precautions During Extreme Heat
With several of these hottest cities under constant threat during summer, adhering to safety guidelines is paramount:
Hydrate Relentlessly: Drink ample water throughout the day, even if not feeling thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and excessive sugary drinks.
Seek Shade and Cool: Stay indoors during peak sun hours (typically 12 PM – 4 PM). Use fans, cool cloths, and air conditioning if available. Visit public cooling centres if necessary.
Dress Appropriately: Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-coloured cotton clothing. Use hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas outdoors.
Never Leave Anyone in Parked Vehicles: Temperatures inside a car can become lethal within minutes.
Check on Vulnerable Groups: Regularly monitor the elderly, young children, pregnant women, outdoor workers, and those with chronic illnesses.
Recognise Heat Illness Signs: Be alert for symptoms like dizziness, headache, nausea, rapid pulse, excessive sweating (or lack thereof with hot, dry skin), and confusion. Heatstroke (high body temperature, altered mental state, loss of consciousness) is a medical emergency – call for help immediately and start cooling the person.
Follow Official Advisories: Heed IMD alerts and guidance from local authorities regarding work/school timings and safety measures.
