India Heatwave 2026: IMD warns of rising temperatures as India records unusual heatwave of 8°C above normal

India is witnessing an unusually early heatwave as temperatures rise 4–8°C above normal across several regions. (Image; Canva)

• India faces early heatwave, temperatures 4°C-8°C above normal.
• IMD issues heatwave warnings for northern and central regions.
• Rain relief expected after March 9 due to western disturbance.

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India is experiencing an unusually early spell of intense heat in 2026. The temperatures soared well above seasonal averages across several parts of the country. According to the India Meteorological Department, many regions recorded temperatures 4°C to 8°C above normal. This hint towards the early arrival of summer-like conditions in early March.

Weather experts warn that the sudden rise in temperatures could trigger heatwave conditions in parts of India. The North and Central India is experiencing heatwave whereas, some southern regions may also feel the impact in the coming days with rainfall conditions.

Temperatures spike across Northern India

North-western parts of the country, including Delhi and surrounding states, have witnessed a sharp rise in daytime temperatures. The national capital recorded around 35°C during the first week of March. This is an unusually high reading for this time of year.

Several neighbouring states such as Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh are also seeing similar warming trends.

Meteorologists say the heat is particularly concerning because March typically marks the transition from winter to spring, not extreme summer heat.

Heatwave alerts issued in several regions

The IMD has warned of possible heatwave conditions in isolated areas over the coming days. Regions that could be affected include Himachal Pradesh, Vidarbha in Maharashtra, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema and Northern parts of Tamil Nadu.

Authorities are advising people to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and monitor local weather advisories.

Why are the temperatures rising? 

Scientists say the main reason behind the unusual warmth is the absence of active western disturbances, which are weather systems that usually bring clouds, rain and cooler air to northern India during late winter and early spring.

With clear skies and dry atmospheric conditions, sunlight reaches the ground more directly, causing daytime temperatures to rise rapidly. This combination has accelerated the onset of hot weather across large parts of the country.

Relief may arrive with upcoming weather system

Meteorologists say some temporary relief could arrive after March 9, when a fresh western disturbance is expected to move into north India. This system may bring cloud cover, light rainfall, and thunderstorms, potentially lowering temperatures by 5°C to 7°C in certain areas.

At the same time, eastern and southern regions may experience isolated rainfall and thunderstorms, which could moderate the heat locally.

Early heat raises climate concerns

The early rise in temperatures is also raising questions among climate experts, who say heatwaves in India are increasingly occurring earlier in the year. Warmer-than-normal spring conditions can affect agriculture, water resources and public health.

If current trends continue, experts warn that India could face a longer and more intense summer season in 2026.