India records hottest August since 1901; September rainfall expected to be low

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that August 2026 was the hottest August recorded in 125 years, since 1901. The average temperature for the month reached 28.01 degrees Celsius, exceeding the normal average of 27.34 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the average minimum temperature hit a record 24.36 degrees Celsius, compared to the normal 23.68 degrees Celsius.

Rainfall in August was also significantly below average, with 213.3 mm recorded, marking the seventh lowest rainfall for August since 2001. The IMD attributes these extreme weather conditions to a moderate to strong El Nino pattern in the equatorial Pacific Ocean.

The forecast for September indicates continued challenges, with rainfall expected to be less than 91 percent of the Long Period Average (LPA). Consequently, average maximum temperatures across the country are expected to remain above normal, leading to increased heat levels alongside the predicted dry spell.