IMD Predicts Increased Heatwave Days Across India This Summer

The India Meteorological Department has forecasted an above-normal number of heatwave days in various regions of India from April to June. While some areas will experience normal to below-normal maximum temperatures, others, particularly in the east and northeast, are expected to see higher temperatures. Rainfall is projected to be above normal for most of the country, except for northeastern regions. The IMD's predictions highlight significant weather patterns that could impact daily life and agriculture this summer.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 1, 2026, 10:23 IST

Heatwave Forecast for April to June

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Tuesday that regions in eastern, central, northwestern, and southeastern India are expected to experience a higher-than-normal number of heatwave days from April to June this year.

According to their monthly forecast, maximum temperatures in other parts of the country are anticipated to be either normal or below normal.

“Throughout this season, most areas are likely to see above-normal minimum temperatures, with the exception of certain regions in Maharashtra and Telangana, where temperatures are expected to be normal or below normal,” the IMD stated.

The department also indicated that while many areas will experience normal to below-normal maximum temperatures in April, some regions in eastern and northeastern India, as well as parts of northwestern India and the southern peninsula, will likely see above-normal maximum temperatures.

Furthermore, the IMD noted that above-normal monthly minimum temperatures are expected across most of India, except for isolated areas in the southern peninsula where normal temperatures are predicted for April.

“In April 2026, many coastal regions, including Odisha, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andhra Pradesh, are likely to experience an increased number of heatwave days, along with isolated areas in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka,” the forecast added.

The IMD also projected that average rainfall across the country in April is likely to be above normal, exceeding 112% of the long-term average, which is based on rainfall data from the last 50 years.

“Most regions of the country, except for northeast India, are expected to receive normal to above-normal rainfall,” the press release stated. “Conversely, many areas in northeastern India are likely to see below-normal rainfall.”

Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the director general of the IMD, mentioned that western disturbances are expected to continue influencing various parts of the country in April, as reported by a news media outlet.

“Additionally, thunderstorms, above-average rainfall, and cloudy conditions will likely keep maximum temperatures within the normal range or below during this summer season,” Mohapatra added.