India is currently facing its first heatwave of the season, with temperatures in Banda, Uttar Pradesh reaching 47.6°C. This early spell of extreme heat serves as a warning for potentially more intense heatwaves in the coming months. Predictions indicate that high temperatures will not only persist through the summer but may extend into the monsoon season, exacerbated by a developing El Niño phenomenon. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has noted that heatwaves occur when temperatures exceed normal levels by 5°C for at least two consecutive days, with severe heatwaves exceeding 7°C. The core heatwave zones include northwestern and central India, as well as parts of the eastern coast, where heatwaves have historically led to significant health impacts. Currently, 23 states are implementing heat action plans to address the risks associated with extreme heat, although heatwaves are not legally recognized as disasters under India's Disaster Management Act. The IMD's 2023 report highlights a correlation between El Niño events and increased heatwave activity, suggesting that the current El Niño could lead to below-normal rainfall and heightened heat conditions this year and beyond.