The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast an increase in heatwave days and above-normal minimum temperatures across most parts of India for the summer of 2026. According to The Indian Express, the IMD’s summer outlook indicates that the period from April to June will see “above-normal” heatwave days in east, central, northwest India, and the southeast peninsula. The forecast also highlights that minimum temperatures are set to be “above-normal” across most of the country, except for Telangana, neighbouring Maharashtra, and some pockets of west Madhya Pradesh and adjoining Rajasthan.As highlighted by Scroll, the IMD also projects that rainfall in April, averaged over the country, will be above normal, exceeding 112 percent of the long-period average.“During the season, above-normal minimum temperatures are likely over most parts of the country except some regions of Maharashtra and Telangana where normal to below normal minimum temperatures are likely,” the IMD stated.As reported by Hindustan Times, the IMD attributes the expected warmer nights to increased rainfall, thunderstorm activity, and persistent cloud cover, which trap heat radiating from the Earth’s surface. The agency warns that while daytime temperatures may be milder, the combination of high night temperatures and more frequent heatwaves could still pose significant health risks, especially for vulnerable populations.Analysis showed that above-normal maximum temperatures are expected in several parts of eastern and northeastern India, as well as some areas of northwestern India and the southern peninsula. However, maximum temperatures are likely to be normal to below normal in the remaining regions, with the IMD attributing this to the prevalence of thunderstorms and cloudy conditions.Coverage revealed that March 2026 recorded the second warmest minimum temperatures in 126 years, indicating a continuing trend of warmer nights. The IMD also warned that heatwave spells in April could extend up to nine days in some regions, longer than the climatological average of three to five days.At the end of its update, the IMD cautioned that intense and widespread thunderstorm activity is likely in different parts of April, and people working outdoors should exercise caution. The agency also noted that El Niño conditions are likely to develop later in the monsoon season, which could further influence weather patterns.“We expect western disturbances to continue affecting various parts of the country in April. In addition, thunderstorms, above-average rainfall and the prevalence of cloudy sky conditions will keep the maximum temperatures range between normal and below this summer season,” said IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra.Note: This article is produced using AI-assisted tools and is based on publicly available information. It has been reviewed by The Quint's editorial team before publishing.