India recorded its warmest October in over 120 years, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting a warm November and a delayed onset of winter. The IMD has also forecast a wetter-than-normal month, with “heavy to very heavy rainfall” expected in various regions.
According to IMD chief Mrityunjay Mohapatra, a combination of four active low-pressure systems and a lack of western disturbances — which typically help cool temperatures — contributed to the unusual warmth. October’s mean temperature reached 26.92°C, the highest since 1901, surpassing the usual 25.69°C. Minimum temperatures also rose, with an average of 21.85°C compared to the typical 20.01°C. Mohapatra attributed the warmer temperatures to the absence of western disturbances and an increase in easterly winds caused by active low-pressure areas over the Bay of Bengal.
Pollution levels have also surged in parts of the country, likely due to widespread Diwali celebrations and non-compliance with local firecracker bans.
Also Read- IMD Warns of Colder-Than-Expected Winters in India, Temperatures May Drop to 3°C
The IMD’s official release noted that northwest and east India are expected to experience a gradual dip in temperatures by 2-3°C between November 3 and 7. However, no major weather changes are expected in other regions over the coming week. The weather bureau also noted that “above normal to normal rainfall” is expected across most parts of India, excluding northwest and some central regions.
The delay in colder weather could be linked to persistent neutral El Niño conditions in the Pacific Ocean. However, the IMD forecasts a gradual development of La Niña conditions between November and December.