IMD Predicts Widespread Temperature Increase Across India
The India Meteorological Department has issued a significant weather forecast indicating a gradual temperature rise across multiple regions of the country. According to IMD officials, maximum temperatures are expected to increase by approximately 2-4°C in most parts of India beginning February 20.
Regional Temperature Patterns and Current Conditions
Specific regions including Kerala, Mahe, Karnataka, Konkan, and Goa are anticipated to experience a temperature increase of about 2°C over the next three days. Recent measurements have already shown elevated mercury levels across several locations in Kerala.
Recorded temperatures include:
- Kannur: 36.4°C
- Kozhikode: 35.4°C
- Kottayam: 35.2°C
- Kochi airport: 35.1°C
- Punalur: 34.5°C
- Vellanikkara: 34.1°C
Kannur has been experiencing particularly high temperatures in recent days, with the mercury reaching 37.2°C on Thursday. Kozhikode recorded temperatures approximately 2°C above its normal level of 33.4°C, maintaining around 35°C for the past two days. Kottayam showed a 1.2°C increase from its typical 34°C reading.
Contrasting Weather Patterns Across Regions
While many areas are experiencing temperature increases, Palakkad—typically known for high mercury levels—recorded cooler temperatures at 32°C. Humidity levels varied significantly across regions, with Punalur reaching 73% relative humidity while most other locations maintained levels between 45-55%.
Additional locations including Thiruvananthapuram city, Karipur, and Kochi city all recorded temperatures exceeding 33°C. IMD reports indicate dry weather conditions prevailing over Kerala and Lakshadweep, with no substantial changes in minimum temperatures across Kerala during the past 24 hours.
However, minimum temperatures were below normal in Kottayam and Kollam districts, with Punalur recording the lowest minimum temperature of 19.5°C.
West Coast Experiences Sharp Temperature Surge
Weather analysis from Skymet Weather reveals a striking contrast between India's western and eastern coastal regions. The west coast is experiencing temperatures rising sharply into the high 30s, while the east coast maintains milder conditions with mercury levels confined to approximately 30°C.
This significant temperature differential between the two sides of peninsular India represents an important meteorological development as the country approaches the pre-monsoon season.
"Day temperatures have frequently breached the 36°C mark along the west coast, from Kochi to Ratnagiri," noted Skymet Weather analysts. "The west coast experiences land winds—an extension of the northeasterlies from the east coast—that traverse across peninsular India's interiors until afternoon hours."
Current temperatures along the west coast have reached 38°C with expectations of further increases. Interestingly, interior regions of south India are not experiencing the same intensity of heat as the coastline along the Western Ghats.
Early Indicators of Pre-Monsoon Season
Meteorologists interpret these weather patterns as early indications of the approaching pre-monsoon season for southern India. The building temperature differential between coastal regions provides significant meteorological data points for forecasting upcoming seasonal changes.
As temperatures continue to rise across multiple regions, weather monitoring agencies will closely observe these developments to provide accurate forecasts and warnings for affected populations.
