- IMD predicts above normal day and night temperatures across most of India
- Heatwave days likely to increase in east, central and southern regions
- Scientists link early heat to climate change and urbanisation
India is bracing for a hotter than usual summer as the IMD heatwave warning flags above normal temperatures across most parts of the country from March to May. The forecast follows an early onset of heat in mid February, raising concerns over water stress, power demand, and public health in the months ahead.
The India Meteorological Department said the upcoming hot weather season is likely to see prolonged warmth, with fewer cooling breaks than usual.
Where temperatures will rise the most
According to IMD projections, maximum temperatures are expected to remain above normal across large parts of east and east central India, the southeast peninsula, and pockets of northwest and west central India during the March to May period.
Some relief may come to parts of northwest and central India, where daytime temperatures could stay near normal or slightly below normal at times.
Minimum or night temperatures are also forecast to remain above normal over most regions, reducing overnight cooling and increasing heat stress, especially in urban areas.
Heatwave days to increase in key regions
The IMD has warned of an above normal number of heatwave days over most of east India, east central India, many areas of the southern peninsula, and isolated parts of northwest India.
During March specifically, parts of Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh are likely to experience more heatwave days than usual, even before peak summer sets in.
March outlook shows mixed signals
While March monthly maximum temperatures may remain normal to below normal in several regions, above normal daytime temperatures are still likely in northeast India, adjoining eastern states, parts of the western Himalayan region, central India, and the peninsula.
Night temperatures in March are expected to be above normal across most of the country, except parts of northwest India, the southern peninsula, and sections of the east coast.
Rainfall may not offset the heat
Rainfall during March is projected to be normal to above normal over many regions. However, northeast India and parts of northwest and east central India are likely to receive below normal rainfall, limiting natural cooling and soil moisture replenishment.
Meteorologists caution that sporadic rain may not be enough to counter sustained heat spells.
Why India is heating up earlier
Climate records show that late winter warming and pre monsoon heat accelerated in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Since 2010, early season heat anomalies have become more frequent and intense, with several post 2015 years ranking among the warmest on record.
Scientists attribute this trend to long term global warming, declining winter rainfall, fewer strong western disturbances, and changing land atmosphere interactions. Rapid urbanisation and the urban heat island effect have further amplified local temperatures.
What this means beyond discomfort
Rising temperatures have cascading effects. Prolonged heat strains water resources, drives up electricity demand, disrupts outdoor work, and increases the risk of heat related illnesses, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Public health experts stress the need for early heat action plans, improved urban planning, and awareness campaigns ahead of peak summer.
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