March to remain hotter than 2025 in MP:Temperature already 3°C above normal in the first week; IMD issues safety guidelines

Madhya Pradesh is experiencing ‘loo’-like heat at the very beginning of March, with temperatures already rising significantly above normal levels. During the first week of the month, the mercury is about 3°C higher than usual. In the Malwa–Nimar region, including the Indore and Ujjain divisions, temperatures have reached up to 39°C. On Sunday, Ratlam recorded the highest temperature on Rangpanchami, while strong sunshine was also observed in Indore, Ujjain, Bhopal, Gwalior and Jabalpur. Senior meteorologist Dr. Divya E. Surendran said the maximum temperatures across the state are above normal and similar weather conditions are likely to continue for the next four to five days. She also noted that a Western Disturbance is expected to become active from March 9. Temperatures cross 36°C in several cities On Sunday, intense heat was felt across many cities in the state. Among the five major cities, Ujjain recorded the highest temperature at 36.7°C. Gwalior recorded 36.5°C, Indore 35.8°C, Bhopal 34.8°C, and Jabalpur 34.4°C. Temperatures were even higher in some other districts. Ratlam touched 39°C, while Narmadapuram recorded 38.1°C. The mercury reached 37.4°C in both Guna and Sagar, and 37°C in Sheopur. In several other cities, daytime temperatures remained above 32°C. Reasons behind the sudden rise in heat According to the Meteorological Department, this March is turning out to be hotter than the same period last year. The normal temperature in many cities has already increased by 2–3°C. Meteorologists attribute the rise in temperature mainly to changes in wind direction. At present, winds that earlier blew from the north-east have shifted to west and north-west directions. In addition, the moisture level in the air is currently very low, which contributes to higher temperatures. Winds arriving from desert regions also carry warm air into Madhya Pradesh, further increasing the heat. Heat arriving earlier than usual Typically, intense heat in the state begins in the second half of March. Over the past ten years, strong heat conditions generally developed only after March 15. However, this year the trend appears to have changed. Instead of the second half of the month, temperatures have begun rising sharply at the very start of March, bringing unusually warm conditions earlier than usual. IMD issues safety guidelines Due to the rising temperatures, the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Meteorological Centre Bhopal, has issued several precautionary guidelines for residents. Senior meteorologist Dr. Divya E. Surendran said that sunlight is particularly intense between 12 pm and 3 pm. People have been advised to avoid stepping out during these hours unless necessary and to remain in shaded areas whenever possible. Residents have also been advised to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, wear light and loose cotton clothing, and cover their faces with a cloth when going out in the sun. Special care should be taken for children, elderly people, and those suffering from health problems. Temperatures may reach 40°C soon According to the Meteorological Department, maximum temperatures in the state could increase by another 4°C within the next four days. If the trend continues, the mercury may touch 40°C during the first half of March itself, which is earlier than the usual seasonal pattern. Heatwave likely only in April and May Meteorologists say that although temperatures are rising early this year, a heatwave is not expected in March. Instead, April and May are likely to witness the strongest heatwave conditions, which could last for 15 to 20 days in several regions. March shows mixed seasonal conditions Weather data from the past decade shows that March in Madhya Pradesh often reflects the influence of all three seasons. Nights tend to remain relatively cool while daytime temperatures rise significantly. Occasional rainfall is also common. This year, similar conditions are being observed. In Bhopal, Indore and Ujjain, daytime temperatures may cross 40°C, while night temperatures could remain between 10°C and 17°C. The Meteorological Department noted that Gwalior experiences the most variation in March weather. Night temperatures there have dropped to around 8°C recently. In Jabalpur, the pattern of hot days and cool nights continues. April–May expected to be the hottest months The Meteorological Department has predicted that April and May will be the hottest months this year. During this period, temperatures may cross 45°C in districts of the Gwalior, Chambal, Jabalpur, Rewa, Shahdol and Sagar divisions. Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain and Narmadapuram divisions are also expected to experience severe heat. Multiple weather disturbances in February Weather conditions fluctuated several times in February this year. At the beginning of the month, the state experienced two spells of hailstorms, rain and strong winds, which caused significant damage to crops. The government subsequently conducted surveys to assess the losses. From February 18, the state witnessed another spell of rain, which continued on February 19, 20 and 21. A fourth round of hail and rainfall occurred on February 23 and 24, marking multiple weather disturbances during the month.