IMD Warns of Extreme Heatwave from April to June
India: India is expected to experience extreme heat from April to June, with the central and western parts of the country facing the most severe impact, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on March 10. This forecast comes as the country prepares for the seven-phase general elections starting on April 19.
IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated that most parts of the country are likely to experience above-normal maximum temperatures during this period, with a higher risk of heatwaves in central and western India. However, normal to below-normal temperatures are expected in some areas of the western Himalayan region, northeastern states, and north Odisha.
Most parts of the plains are expected to experience more heatwave days than usual during this period. Heatwaves could last for 10 to 20 days in various regions, compared to the typical four to eight days.
Mohapatra stated that Gujarat, central Maharashtra, north Karnataka, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, north Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh are likely to be the most affected by heatwaves.
The IMD has predicted above-normal maximum temperatures for most parts of the country in April, with central and southern India having the highest likelihood. Some areas in the western Himalayan region and northeastern states may experience normal to below-normal maximum temperatures. Additionally, many regions in central India, the northern plains, and southern India are predicted to experience more heatwave days than usual, according to the weather office.
Mohapatra stated that these regions are likely to experience heatwaves for two to eight days instead of the usual one to three days. The most severe impact is expected in Gujarat, Maharashtra, north Karnataka, Odisha, west Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh in April.
