Probabilistic Forecast for the Temperature during April 2026 During April 2026, monthly maximum temperatures are likely to be normal to below normal over many parts of the country. However, above-normal maximum temperatures are expected over many parts of east and northeast India and some parts of northwest India and southern peninsular India. Above-normal monthly minimum temperatures are most likely over most parts of India, except some isolated pockets over south peninsula where normal minimum temperatures are likely during April 2026. Heat wave outlook for the April 2026 During April 2026, Above-normal heatwave days are likely over many parts of coastal areas of Odisha, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andhra Pradesh and isolated regions of Gujarat Maharashtra and Karnataka. The increased likelihood of heatwave conditions may pose significant risks to public health, water resources, power demand, and essential services, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, outdoor workers, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions. Elevated temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses and additional stress on infrastructure and resource management systems. Accordingly, State authorities and district administrations are advised to ensure timely preparedness, including operational readiness of cooling shelters, adequate drinking water supply, and strengthened health surveillance. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) provides weekly and extended range forecasts, along with Early Warnings and Impact-Based Forecasts (IBF), indicating the likely severity and spatial distribution of heatwave conditions to support proactive planning. The public is advised to monitor updates and adopt precautionary measures such as staying hydrated, avoiding peak heat exposure, and taking special care of vulnerable individuals during the season. Probabilistic Forecast for the Rainfall during April 2026 The rainfall during April 2026, averaged over the country as a whole, is most likely to be above normal (>112% of LPA). Normal to above-normal rainfall is likely over most parts of the country except Northeast India. Below-normal rainfall is expected over many parts of northeastern India. Likely Impact of Above-normal Temperatures and heatwaves on Agriculture in April 2026 Significant heat stress during reproductive stages of Boro rice, maize, green gram, black gram and vegetables (tomato, chilli, brinjal), leading to poor grain setting, flower drop and reduced yields in east and northeast India, northwest India and southern peninsular India. Accelerated maturity of late-sown wheat, chickpea and lentil, resulting in reduced grain filling duration and reduced yield in east and east-central India and adjoining peninsular regions. Terminal heat stress in late-sown wheat, mustard and barley, leading to shrivelled grains and reduced productivity in northwest India. Reduced pod filling and grain formation in crops, along with increased flower and fruit drop in mango and banana, particularly over southern peninsular India. Rapid soil moisture depletion in standing crops due to high evapotranspiration. Agromet Advisories due to above normal temperatures and heatwaves for April 2026 Provide light and frequent irrigation to standing crops at critical growth stages (flowering and grain filling) in rice, maize, pulses and oilseeds, particularly over east, east-central and peninsular India. Apply foliar spray of potassium nitrate or other anti-transpirants to help crops manage heat stress. Maintain adequate soil moisture and prefer short-duration and heat-tolerant varieties for summer crops wherever possible. Complete harvesting of wheat and mustard at the earliest to minimize losses due to terminal heat stress in northwest India. Apply mulching to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds around the crop root zone. Avoid field operations during peak afternoon hours. Regularly monitor crops for increased incidence of insect-pests such as aphids, whiteflies and thrips, and fungal diseases under forecasted warm and humid conditions. Ensure adequate drinking water, shade and proper ventilation for livestock. Source : IMD