Northwest India's Hottest June Since 1901

Northwest India experienced its warmest June on record since 1901, with a mean temperature of 31.73 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department. The abnormal temperatures and a significant rainfall deficit in Northeast India are attributed to sluggish monsoon progress and reduced low-pressure systems.

Northwest India's recorded its warmest June since 1901, reporting a mean temperature of 31.73 degrees Celsius, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Monday.

The region's monthly average maximum temperature was 38.02 degrees Celsius, 1.96 degrees Celsius above normal, while the average minimum temperature stood at 25.44 degrees Celsius, 1.35 degrees Celsius above normal, according to IMD data.

IMD chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra explained that Northeast India also faced a 33 percent rainfall deficit in June, largely due to the sluggish advance of the monsoon over northern and eastern parts of the country, hampered by the lack of weather systems. Only one low-pressure area developed, compared to the usual three.

He also noted the Madden-Julian Oscillation's unfavorable conditions, contributing to the absence of enhanced convection and low-pressure systems. Additionally, fewer western disturbances, mainly between June 10 to June 19, resulted in longer dry spells and heat waves across northwest and central India.