More heatwave days, above-normal temperatures likely in India in April-June

India is set to experience extreme heat during the April to June period, with the central and western peninsular parts expected to be worst-hit, the weather department said on Monday.

“Above-normal maximum temperatures are likely over most parts of the country during the April-June period, with a high probability over central and western peninsular India,” India Meteorological Department (IMD) Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra informed.

As per the latest IMD update, normal to below-normal maximum temperatures are likely over some parts of the western Himalayan region, northeastern states and north Odisha, Mohapatra updated.

However, most parts in northern and central plains will likely have to brave above-normal temperatures and heatwave days during the same period.

At least 10 to 20 days of heatwave are expected in different parts of the country against a normal of four to eight days, the IMD update mentioned.

Additionally, above-normal maximum temperatures are likely over central India and the adjoining areas of the northern plains and south India in April, the weather office warned.

Gujarat, central Maharashtra, north Karnataka, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, north Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh are likely in for the worst of heatwaves during the month of April.

IMD chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra went ahead to add that around two to eight days of heatwave are expected in these regions against a normal of one to three days.

Notably, India is slated to vote for the Lok Sabha elections 2024 in seven phases spanning over nearly a month and a half from April 19 and June 1, with the counting of votes to be carried out on June 4.