Bureau (2 March 2026): India is set to experience a hotter-than-normal summer this year, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting an increase in heatwave days between March and May.
According to IMD’s seasonal outlook, most parts of the country are likely to witness above-normal temperatures during the summer months. Weather expert Sharat Sahu said that heatwave days are expected to be higher than usual, particularly in eastern and east-central India.
He also noted that the ongoing Iran–Israel conflict could have indirect effects on weather patterns. According to him, the extensive use of missiles and weapons in the conflict zone may influence atmospheric conditions. Since hot winds from the Iran region often flow toward India, any significant disturbance in that region could potentially impact climate behavior and intensify heat conditions.
Regions Likely to Be Most Affected
The IMD estimates that heatwave days will rise across most parts of the country. States likely to witness above-normal heatwave days include:
- Odisha
- West Rajasthan
- Gujarat
- Haryana
- South and East Maharashtra
- East Uttar Pradesh
- Bihar
- Jharkhand
- Gangetic West Bengal
- Chhattisgarh
- Telangana
- Andhra Pradesh
- North Interior Karnataka
- North Tamil Nadu
Eastern, northwestern, and east-central regions are expected to see a notable rise in extreme heat days compared to seasonal averages.
Temperatures Already Rising
With the beginning of March, temperatures have already started climbing. On the first day of the month, four cities in Odisha recorded temperatures above 36°C.
Jharsuguda emerged as the hottest city in the state at 36.4°C. The state capital Bhubaneswar and Sonepur recorded 36.2°C, while Baripada touched 36°C. Additionally, six other locations in the state reported temperatures above 35°C, according to the Regional Meteorological Centre’s evening bulletin.
Experts warn that prolonged heatwave conditions could impact public health, agriculture, and power demand. Authorities are expected to issue advisories urging citizens to take precautionary measures as summer intensifies in the coming weeks.
