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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast above-normal rainfall for April 2026 across most parts of India. The month is likely to receive more than 12 per cent extra rain than the long-term average.
Usually, April brings about 39 mm of rain across the whole country. This year, the IMD expects more than 112% of this normal amount. In simple words, that means at least 12% more rain than usual.
According to the seasonal outlook released on March 31, most regions as north, central, west and south India, will see normal or above-normal rainfall. Only parts of Northeast India are likely to receive below-normal rain.
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Temperature outlook for April
Daytime temperatures (maximum) are expected to remain normal or below normal in many states. However, eastern and northeastern India, along with some areas in northwest and southern peninsula, may see higher-than-normal daytime heat.
Night-time temperatures (minimum) will stay above normal in most parts of the country.
Heatwave alert
IMD has also warned of more heatwave days in April in coastal areas of Odisha, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andhra Pradesh. Some pockets in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka may also see extra hot spells.
For the full hot weather season (April to June), eastern, central, northwest India and southeast peninsula are likely to record more heatwave days than usual.
What it means for farmers
The extra rain will help fill water bodies and support crops. But the mix of heat and moisture can affect standing crops.
Possible effects include:
- Poor grain formation in rice, maize, pulses and vegetables
- Early flowering or fruit drop in mango and banana
- Faster ripening of late-sown wheat, gram and lentil
The IMD has given simple advice to farmers. They should give light irrigation to crops during the hottest hours of the day. Farmers can spray potassium nitrate or special anti-transpirant sprays to protect plants from heat stress. In northwest India, they should finish harvesting wheat and mustard as quickly as possible. Using mulching will help keep the soil moist. They should also keep a close watch for insects and fungal diseases because the warm, wet weather can increase their spread.
Safety tips
People should drink plenty of water, avoid stepping out during peak afternoon heat, and take special care of children, elderly persons and outdoor workers.
IMD prepares these forecasts using advanced climate models and updates them regularly. Weekly and daily forecasts are available on the official website: mausam.imd.gov.in.
This is the first major update for the 2026 hot weather season. Farmers and state governments have been asked to prepare accordingly.
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