Goa, April 21 -- India has become the world's epicenter of extreme heat, with 19 of the 20 hottest locations globally recorded within India, according to AQI.in data released on April 21. The India Meteorological Department has warned that the ongoing heatwave will intensify between April 22 and April 24, with temperatures expected to reach 43degC in several regions.

A heatwave is declared when temperatures exceed 40degC-a threshold already crossed across northern, central, and eastern parts of the country. Cities such as Bhagalpur, Talcher, and Asansol recorded highs of 44degC. Several towns across Bihar and neighboring regions reported temperatures around 43degC.

Experts link the surge to intense pre-monsoon solar radiation, clear ski...