India is expected to face extreme heat between April and June, with the central and western peninsular regions likely to experience the most severe impact, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned on Monday. This forecast comes as the country prepares for seven-phase general elections starting April 19.
IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated that above-normal maximum temperatures are expected across most parts of the country during this period, with higher chances of heatwaves in central and western peninsular India. However, normal to below-normal temperatures are expected in some parts of the western Himalayan region, northeastern states, and north Odisha, he added.
Most parts of the plains are likely to experience above-normal heatwave days during this period. Heatwaves could last for 10 to 20 days in various regions, compared to the usual four to eight days, he added.
Mohapatra stated that Gujarat, central Maharashtra, north Karnataka, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, north Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh are expected to be the worst affected by heat waves.
The IMD has predicted above-normal maximum temperatures across most parts of the country in April, with central south India having the highest probability. Some areas in the western Himalayan region and the northeastern states may experience normal to below-normal maximum temperatures. Additionally, many areas in central India, the northern plains, and south India are likely to witness above-normal heatwave days, the weather office stated.
Mohapatra stated that these regions are expected to witness two to eight days of heat waves, compared to the usual one to three days. The worst impact is likely in Gujarat, Maharashtra, north Karnataka, Odisha, west Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh in April.
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