The IMD forecasts above-normal temperatures this summer across most of India, with heatwaves lasting 10-11 days in central and eastern regions. Heavy rainfall is expected in Northeast states, along with possible floods and landslides. La Nina conditions continue, indicating no El Nino this monsoon. Local administrations are advised to stay prepared for these weather events.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has projected above-normal temperatures across most of India this summer, particularly from April to June. Extended heatwave episodes lasting 10 to 11 days are anticipated in central and eastern regions, notably affecting Odisha, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh.
According to IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, states expected to face above-normal heatwave days include Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and northern Karnataka.Typically, heatwaves in these areas last four to seven days, but this summer may see prolonged occurrences, especially in the designated states.
From April 10 through the month’s end, heavy rainfall is predicted for Northeast states, with risks of floods and landslides. Kerala and south interior Karnataka are likewise expected to experience above-normal rainfall and thunderstorms. Mr. Mohapatra advised local authorities to remain vigilant and prepared.
The summer season will commence unusually warm in several states, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, north Karnataka, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and others, with daytime temperatures exceeding normal levels throughout April. Nighttime temperatures across the country, aside from Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Northeast India, are expected to be warmer as well. The IMD warned that heatwaves extending up to a week could occur in eastern India, particularly in Odisha during April.
Typically, April heatwaves in eastern India last one to three days. However, an increase in the duration of these events is projected this April. In March, all-India temperatures were mostly within the normal range, with lower temperatures noted in central and southern peninsular India, despite occasional heatwaves in Gujarat and Odisha.
Cooling temperatures were aided by intermittent rainfall and snowfall events affecting various states, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and parts of the Northeast. As for the monsoon, the continuing La Nina conditions in the equatorial Pacific indicate that El Nino phenomena are unlikely during this year’s monsoon season.
Mr. Mohapatra stated that sea surface temperatures are expected to remain normal, suggesting neutral El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions throughout summer and early monsoon. The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is also anticipated to remain neutral or potentially shift to a negative phase during the monsoon. The IMD is set to release its initial long-range monsoon forecast in the coming weeks.
In summary, the IMD forecasts above-normal temperatures and prolonged heatwave events for much of India this summer, particularly affecting central and eastern states. Heavy rainfall is anticipated in Northeast India, with risks of floods and landslides. Local authorities have been urged to maintain preparedness in light of these conditions, while the ongoing La Nina suggests no imminent El Nino during the monsoon. The IMD will provide further updates on the monsoon forecast shortly.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
