Every year in late May, many parts of India begin to feel like giant outdoor ovens. Roads shimmer in the sunlight, hot winds sweep across cities, and stepping outside in the afternoon can feel exhausting within minutes. This scorching phase is known as Nautapa, a traditional term linked with the hottest stretch of India’s summer before the monsoon arrives. In 2026, Nautapa began on May 25 and is expected to continue until June 2. Several regions across North and Central India are already seeing temperatures crossing 45°C, with weather departments issuing heatwave alerts in many states.
What does Nautapa mean?
The word Nautapa comes from two Hindi words:
- Nau meaning nine
- Tapa meaning heat or burning warmth
Together, Nautapa refers to a nine-day period believed to bring the year’s harshest heat. Traditionally, it is associated with the Sun entering Rohini Nakshatra in Hindu astrology. However, weather experts explain that the extreme heat mainly happens because of strong pre-monsoon summer conditions.
Why does Nautapa feel so hot?
By late May, the ground across India has already absorbed weeks of powerful sunlight. Moisture levels become very low, skies stay mostly clear, and dry winds continue blowing across inland areas. This allows temperatures to rise rapidly during the daytime.
Many regions also experience hot winds called loo, especially across Rajasthan, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and nearby states. During Nautapa, temperatures often stay above 40°C and can even touch 47°C or higher in some areas.
Scientists also warn that climate change and warming oceans are making heatwaves stronger and more frequent across India.
Does Nautapa happen every year?
Yes. Nautapa is considered a regular pre-monsoon weather phase in India and usually falls between late May and early June. However, the intensity changes every year depending on weather systems, rainfall patterns, and global climate conditions such as El Niño. Some years bring dry and dangerous heatwaves, while other years may see thunderstorms or early rain bringing temporary relief.
Read about: What Is El Nino And What Are Its Effects? Explained!
How does Nautapa affect daily life?
Extreme heat can impact:
- Health and hydration
- Electricity demand
- Water supply
- Farming and crops
- Outdoor work and travel
Children, elderly people, outdoor workers, and animals are especially vulnerable during severe heatwaves. Doctors advise people to avoid going outdoors during peak afternoon hours and to drink plenty of water.
Fun fact: India’s hottest recorded temperature was 51°C in Phalodi, Rajasthan, during the 2016 heatwave.
Did you know?
- The India Meteorological Department officially calls a heatwave when temperatures in plains reach at least 40°C under certain conditions.
- The monsoon usually arrives in Kerala first before slowly spreading across the rest of India.
Also, read about: Extreme Heatwave: 95 Of The World’s 100 Hottest Cities Are In India
FAQs
Is Nautapa scientific or traditional?
Nautapa is mainly a traditional term, but the extreme heat during this period matches real pre-monsoon weather conditions.
Which states feel Nautapa the most?
Northern and central states such as Rajasthan, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab often experience the harshest heat.
Does Nautapa mean the monsoon is near?
Yes. Nautapa usually happens just before the southwest monsoon begins advancing across India.
Can rainfall happen during Nautapa?
Yes. Some regions may receive thunderstorms or pre-monsoon showers even during the nine-day period.
Why are heatwaves becoming stronger?
Scientists say climate change is increasing average temperatures and making extreme heat events more frequent and intense worldwide.
And read: Heatwave Alert! What Are The Best Summer Foods For Kids?
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