IMD warns of early heatwave, temperatures likely to rise from early March

India is likely to witness an early onset of summer this year, with temperatures expected to rise sharply from the first week of March, as per India Meteorological Department (IMD).

According to the IMD, maximum temperatures across the plains of north-west and central India may increase by 2 to 4°C over the next five days and during the first week of March 2026. In some areas, the rise could be even more pronounced, signalling an early start to summer around the time of the Holi festival.

The early surge in heat comes even as February has already seen warmer-than-usual conditions in several regions. The IMD has forecast that temperatures in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Delhi could climb 3 to 5°C above normal levels in the coming days.

Holi and Dhuleti will be observed across the country from March 2 to 4, and weather officials have indicated that daytime temperatures during the period are likely to remain high. In parts of north-west India, maximum temperatures may touch 35°C, around 3 to 5 degrees above the seasonal average.

Experts said that in some parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, temperatures could reach 40°C for the first time this season between March 4 and 10. In Rajasthan, the mercury may rise to around 39°C after Holi, with little relief expected during the first fortnight of March.

The IMD attributed the early rise in temperatures to a combination of atmospheric factors. While light snowfall is forecast in Jammu and Kashmir between March 4 and 6 due to western disturbances, its overall impact on temperatures in the northern plains is expected to be limited.

Weather officials advised people to take precautions against heat exposure as the country braces for a potentially prolonged and intense summer season.