Early heatwave grips India’s West coast amid rain-deficient winter

India is experiencing an unusually early heatwave this year, with temperatures soaring along the west coast, according to a report released on February 27. Experts attribute the early onset of the heatwave to an exceptionally dry winter season, among other contributing factors.

Coastal regions, particularly in Maharashtra and Goa, have been facing sweltering temperatures and high humidity levels. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a heatwave alert for Mumbai on February 25 and 26, where the city recorded a maximum temperature of 38.7°C on February 26—5.9 degrees above the normal average—according to data from Climate Trends, an environmental research consultancy.

Several other areas in Coastal Maharashtra and Goa also reported temperatures exceeding 37°C. Meanwhile, coastal parts of Karnataka and Gujarat experienced hot and humid conditions, with temperatures ranging from 35°C to 37°C, just below the official heatwave threshold.

Typically, heatwaves in India occur between March and June, occasionally extending into July. For coastal regions, a heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature rises by 4.5°C or more above the average.

IMD has forecast that the hot and humid weather will continue for the next few days, even if the heatwave conditions subside.

Meteorologists attribute the unusual weather pattern to the lack of rainfall during the winter months. Mahesh Palawat, Vice President of Meteorology and Climate Change at Skymet Weather, explained that an anti-cyclone over Madhya Pradesh has been pushing warm easterly winds towards the west coast. This has delayed the onset of sea breezes and prolonged land breezes, leading to a significant rise in temperatures.

Palawat noted, “This year, the country is experiencing one of its driest winter seasons. In the absence of weather systems, rainfall has been scarce, contributing to the ongoing heatwave.”

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