On April 26, 2026, Maharashtra experienced an alarming rise in temperatures, with Akola hitting 46.9°C, marking the highest temperature recorded in India that day. Following closely was Amravati, which reported a temperature of 46.8°C. These readings surpassed many regions in the traditionally heat-prone state of Rajasthan, including Barmer, which is known for its extreme heat.

A surprising aspect of this weather phenomenon was that several locations across India recorded temperatures exceeding 44°C. However, the fact that Maharashtra’s plains were experiencing higher temperatures than Rajasthan’s arid deserts captured widespread attention.

Factors Contributing to Extreme Heat in Maharashtra

Several elements explain the unusually high temperatures in Maharashtra this year, particularly in the Vidarbha region, which includes Akola and Amravati. The region frequently encounters severe dry heat, characterised by unobstructed sunlight and minimal cloud cover, leading to pronounced temperature increases.

Contrarily, while Rajasthan is notorious for intense heat, the presence of moisture-laden winds can sometimes moderate temperature spikes. In contrast, specific areas in Maharashtra have been contending with intensified heating due to local weather conditions that trap warm air. This unique combination leads to notably high temperatures across the state.

The current heatwave has primarily affected central and peninsular India, where temperatures have risen sharply. The decline in effective cooling systems earlier this month contributed to prolonged humidity, enabling certain regions in Maharashtra to surpass the 46°C mark, while some desert regions in Rajasthan experienced comparatively lower temperatures on the same day.

Early Onset of Intense Summer Across India

This summer commenced unusually early and with striking intensity. The build-up of heat was evident as early as February and March, deviating from usual seasonal patterns. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for an increase in the number of extreme hot days from April through June.

On April 24, reports indicated that 95 of the world’s 100 hottest cities were located in India, with Maharashtra, alongside Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha, bearing the brunt of this heatwave. Cities in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra repeatedly recorded temperatures at or above 45°C, indicating an early and expansive spread of heat throughout the region.

Forecasts suggest that the extreme heat is likely to persist across India. This upward trend in temperatures is expected to continue, with certain areas potentially registering even higher temperatures than previously recorded. The IMD has alerted residents that much of the country will endure extreme heat in the days to come.

Weather Outlook and Potential Relief

Despite the continuation of high temperatures, some respite is on the horizon. The IMD has predicted that multiple western disturbances will affect northern states from April 28 to 30, bringing along dust storms, thunderstorms, and rain. These weather systems could result in a temporary decrease in temperatures, likely lowering them to below 42°C in specific areas, particularly in Rajasthan.

This brief pause in intense heat will be welcomed, providing much-needed relief amid ongoing challenging weather conditions. However, it is anticipated that temperatures will rise again following this temporary reprieve, as summer continues to assert its dominance across the region.

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