NEW DELHI, India — 17 March 2026 — India is set for a day of mixed weather conditions, with forecasters reporting a blend of early‑summer heat, scattered rainfall, and shifting wind patterns across several regions.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), northern states, including Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, will continue to experience warm and dry conditions. Daytime temperatures are expected to hover between 32°C and 35°C, slightly above the seasonal average. IMD officials noted that light winds from the northwest may offer brief relief during the afternoon.
In the western region, particularly Rajasthan and Gujarat, heat levels are projected to rise further. Some districts in western Rajasthan may touch 38°C, marking one of the warmer spells of the month. Weather analysts say this trend is typical as the region transitions toward pre‑summer conditions.
The southern peninsula will see a different pattern. Parts of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and coastal Karnataka are likely to receive isolated showers, driven by moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea. IMD’s regional centre in Chennai stated that light to moderate rainfall may occur in pockets, especially during the late afternoon and evening.
In the eastern and northeastern states, including West Bengal, Assam, and Meghalaya, cloud cover is expected to increase. Short spells of rain or thunderstorms are possible, particularly in hilly areas. Meteorologists attribute this to a weak trough extending across the region.
Central India, covering Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, is forecast to remain mostly clear, with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 34°C. Light haze may be observed in some urban centres due to rising humidity and dust.
IMD officials advised residents in hotter regions to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours. Farmers in southern and northeastern states were encouraged to monitor local advisories, as sudden showers could influence field activities.
The national weather bulletin will be updated later in the day as new satellite and ground‑station data become available, the IMD said.
