GUWAHATI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that Assam could witness temperatures soaring up to 35°C in March this year. The latest forecast, dated Monday, March 3, has also coincided with earlier projections of above-normal temperatures across the country, raising concerns over looming heatwave conditions and agricultural impacts.
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According to Guwahati's Regional Meteorological Centre, the maximum temperature in the city is expected to touch 35°C, with minimum temperatures around 16°C. Similar trends are expected in other parts of the state, with mainly clear skies and occasional haze.
This forecast also follows an earlier report from the agency indicating that March 2024 had already recorded a maximum, average minimum and mean temperature of 31.71ºC, 18.14ºC and 24.92ºC nationwide respectively, slightly above the normal of 31.70ºC, 17.71ºC and 24.71ºC based on data of 1991-2020.
While the average maximum temperature remained nearly normal, the average minimum temperature saw a significant rise of 0.43°C, hinting at a warming trend.
Experts have cautioned that the rising temperatures could have severe consequences for crops such as wheat, chickpea, and rapeseed. India, the world's second-largest wheat producer, is depending on a strong harvest to avoid imports. However, persistent heat stress could lead to reduced yields, further impacting food prices and supply.