Intense heatwaves to hit India; less rains feared in South Asia

Rainfall is likely to be below normal during the June-September 2026 southwest monsoon season across much of South Asia, with the strongest signal over central regions, according to a new seasonal forecast which will help millions of people prepare.

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A few parts of the northwestern, northeastern and southern region are likely to receive normal to above normal rainfall between the May-September monsoon period, according to the South Asian Climate Outlook Forum.

Temperatures — both maximum daytime and minimum overnight ones — are expected to be above normal.

MORE INTENSE: India’s weather office predicted above-normal temperatures across several parts of the country, warning on Friday that May could bring intense heatwave conditions along the coast and in the west.

The South Asian country is no stranger to scorching summers but years of scientific research has found climate change is causing heatwaves to become longer, more frequent and more intense.

Advance information about the likely performance of the monsoon underpins planning in climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture and renewable energy (hydropower). It also informs risk management and public health strategies — including heat-health action plans — in the world's most populous region.

The forum, held in Malé, Maldives, brought together nine National Meteorological and Hydrological Services in South Asia, namely Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.