IMD's summer outlook: Heatwave likely in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana; Maharashtra spared extreme heat

Maharashtra is likely to experience a relatively milder summer this year, with maximum temperatures expected to remain normal to below-normal across large parts of the state from April to June, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Regions such as Vidarbha, north Maharashtra, and Marathwada have a higher probability of recording below-normal daytime temperatures, while parts of western Maharashtra and southern Marathwada are likely to remain closer to normal. (PTI Photo)

A man takes a nap under a tree to escape the scorching heat at Beach Road in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday. For April, however, the IMD indicated that many parts of coastal AP are likely to witness heatwave days.

The seasonal outlook suggests limited heatwave risk for Maharashtra. While central and northwest India may see above-normal heatwave days, most of Maharashtra is largely outside the core high-risk zone. Only isolated areas may experience slightly above-normal heatwave days, typically seven to eight days within the three-month period rather than prolonged spells.

The milder daytime temperatures are attributed to increased pre-monsoon activity. Higher rainfall probability leads to more cloud cover, which suppresses maximum temperatures during the day. This trend is expected to bring intermittent pre-monsoon showers in Maharashtra, providing relief from heat in April. (IANS Photo)

IMD scientist S.D. Sanap highlighted that most parts of Maharashtra are expected to experience cooler daytime conditions this season. He said the tilt towards below-normal maximum temperatures is more pronounced in Vidarbha, north Maharashtra, and Marathwada, though isolated pockets of Madhya Maharashtra may still see slightly above-normal daytime temperatures.

While days are expected to be relatively cooler, nights are likely to be warmer than usual across most of India, including Maharashtra. IMD forecasts indicate normal to above-normal minimum temperatures during April to June, which could make night-time heat slightly uncomfortable despite milder days. (PTI Photo)

Across India, above-normal heatwave days are projected in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, coastal Tamil Nadu, and northern Karnataka during April to June. However, nights in most of these regions may be warmer than usual due to above-normal minimum temperatures. (IANS Photo)

IMD projects normal to above-normal rainfall across most of India in April, including Maharashtra. Enhanced pre-monsoon showers are expected to impact daytime temperatures and increase cloud cover, further keeping maximum temperatures below normal while minimum temperatures rise slightly in certain areas.

For April 2026, IMD forecasts above-normal maximum temperatures in many parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema. Minimum temperatures are also expected to be above normal across the state. This indicates a higher likelihood of heatwave days in coastal areas and Rayalaseema, despite a relatively cooler March and normal rainfall patterns in late March.

Andhra Pradesh saw a normal first month of summer in March 2026, with thunderstorms and light to moderate rainfall keeping maximum temperatures between 34°C and 38°C. Rainfall for the state during March was 11.8 mm, close to the normal average of 12.2 mm. Coastal Andhra Pradesh recorded 13.3 mm against 13.9 mm normal, while Rayalaseema saw 10 mm compared to 9.7 mm normal.