October 2024 Sets Record as India's Hottest Month Ever

Following a record-warm October, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted above-normal temperatures for several regions in November.

Data from the IMD reveals that October 2024 was the warmest on record since 1901, marking a continuation of rising temperatures observed in July, August, and September.

The average mean temperature in October reached 26.92 degrees Celsius, surpassing the expected levels by 1.23 degrees Celsius. Additionally, minimum temperatures for the month also hit their highest levels since records began.

The IMD noted, “The monthly mean minimum temperature for October is the highest recorded in the last 124 years across the entire country, as well as in Northwest India, Central India, and South Peninsular India.”

This unseasonably warm weather can be attributed to two main factors. IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra explained that there was no active western disturbance impacting the region, and five low-pressure areas formed during October, including three depressions and one cyclone, which resulted in more easterly winds.

Western disturbances typically bring a temporary drop in temperatures, but that did not occur this year.

Looking ahead, the IMD expects above-normal temperatures to persist throughout November. Mohapatra clarified, “We do not provide forecasts on the onset of winter, and we do not consider November as part of winter.”

The first half of the month is anticipated to see above-normal minimum temperatures in Northwest and Central India, particularly due to below-normal monsoon rainfall. Northeast and East Central India, along with parts of Northwest and Peninsular India, are also expected to experience above-normal maximum temperatures. In contrast, below-normal temperatures are predicted for west-central regions and adjacent areas.

Additionally, the IMD forecasts above-normal rainfall in South Peninsular India this month.