IMD warns of above-normal summer temperatures

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts above-average summer temperatures this year with adverse weather conditions in some states over the next two to three days between March 28 and 30.

RK Jenamani, a Senior Scientist at IMD said there is an anti-cyclone which is causing Maharashtra and Karnataka to be in the higher temperature zone of 40-41 degree Celsius for next 2-3 days. The Konkan and Goa regions will have high humidity.

“We have also given first time in this season that there will be a temporary heat wave for Saurashtra and Kutch and also interior parts of Maharashtra for the next two days," he said.

Jenamani noted that temperatures in certain regions have already soared to 41 degrees Celsius over the next five days.

Stations in Bhuj, Akola, Vidarbha, Madhya Maharashtra, and Marathwada areas have recorded temperatures of 41 degrees celsius and above, indicating a significant heatwave across the Peninsula, particularly in Maharashtra and Gujarat.

However, he pointed out that the impact of this heatwave may be mitigated by consecutive Western disturbances, which have helped regulate temperatures thus far in 2024.

He noted that temperatures have remained relatively stable and under control so far, attributing this to the anticipated rainfall across Uttar Pradesh and North Rajasthan, along with significant rain and snowfall expected over the next five days.

Earlier forecasts by the IMD had indicated a warmer start to the summer season due to the persistence of El Niño conditions in the Pacific Ocean, a climate pattern known to influence global weather patterns.

However, recent reports from the IMD suggest that El Niño is weakening and likely to transition to a neutral phase by the onset of the monsoon.

This shift is seen as encouraging news, especially following a notably warm 2023, raising hopes for abundant monsoon rains in the upcoming season.