IMD Forecasts Wetter May, Mixed Heat Pattern Across India
Above-normal rainfall likely nationwide as selective regions brace for heatwave conditions
- India Meteorological Department predicts above-normal May rainfall
- Nationwide precipitation expected above 110% of long period average
- Mixed temperature trends with regional heatwave pockets
- Wetter conditions may aid agriculture but raise localized crop risks
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 1st May: The India Meteorological Department has forecast above-normal rainfall across India during May 2026, with precipitation likely to exceed 110 percent of the long period average (LPA).
According to IMD’s monthly climate outlook, much of the country is expected to experience normal to below-normal maximum temperatures, potentially easing widespread extreme summer heat.
However, above-normal daytime temperatures are likely in southern peninsular India, parts of the northeast and select northwestern regions.
Night temperatures are projected to remain warmer than usual across most parts of the country.
The weather agency also warned of increased heatwave days in vulnerable pockets, particularly along Himalayan foothills, eastern coastal areas and parts of Gujarat and Maharashtra.
Rainfall patterns are expected to remain favorable for most agricultural regions, potentially improving soil moisture and supporting kharif crop preparations.
At the same time, excess rainfall in certain areas could disrupt late rabi harvesting and heighten risks of waterlogging, fungal infections and crop damage.
The IMD linked these evolving patterns to broader climatic shifts, including neutral Pacific conditions gradually moving toward El Niño and potential positive Indian Ocean Dipole developments later in the monsoon cycle.
