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IMD Forecasts Above-Normal Heatwave Days Across East, Central India; Warm Nights Nationwide

Target:UPSC GS-IIIMPSCSSC GATeachingPrelims HighMains MediumStatic GK Link
31 Mar 2026
~2 min
Source: Indian Express
Key Data:Second warmest March in 126 yearsHeatwave spell can extend up to nine days
Bodies:IMD
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What This Article Covers

1.IMD forecasts 'above-normal' heatwave days for April-June over parts of east, central, northwest India, and the southeast Peninsula.

2.Minimum temperatures (night temperatures) are predicted to be 'above-normal' across most of India, a significant climate trend.

3.El Nino conditions are expected to emerge by late July-early August, potentially impacting the crucial Southwest Monsoon season.

The Big Picture
Prelims · HighMains · Medium

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts an 'above-normal' number of heatwave days for April-June 2026 in eastern, central, northwestern, and southeastern peninsular regions. While maximum temperatures may be normal to below-normal in many areas, minimum temperatures (night temperatures) are set to be 'above-normal' across most of India, indicating warmer nights.

Exam Lens

Quick Exam Facts From News

Forecast PeriodApril to June 2026
Max Temp ForecastNormal to below-normal over most parts
Min Temp ForecastAbove-normal across most of India
March 2026 Min TempSecond warmest March in 126 years
El Nino OnsetLate July-Early August 2026

1-Minute Revision

  • ›Forecast Period: April to June 2026
  • ›Max Temp Forecast: Normal to below-normal over most parts
  • ›Target this Data: March 2026 was the second warmest March (minimum temperature) in 126 years.
  • ›Target this Nodal Body: India Meteorological Department (IMD) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
  • ›Target this Legal Point: The forecast period for summer heatwaves is April to June.

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Q1Static LinkageEasy

Under which ministry does the India Meteorological Department (IMD) function?

Q2Statement-basedHard

Consider the following statements regarding the IMD summer forecast for 2026:

1. Maximum temperatures are likely to be above-normal over most parts of east and northeast India.

2. Minimum temperatures are expected to be above-normal across the country, with no exceptions.

3. The climatological average of a heatwave spell ranges from 3 to 5 days, but this April, spells can extend up to nine days.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Q3Data-centricMedium

According to the IMD forecast, which month of 2026 recorded the second warmest minimum temperatures in the last 126 years?

Q4Application/ImpactMedium

What is the primary climatological concern associated with the forecasted emergence of El Nino conditions in late July-early August 2026?

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