Rain likely to extend into April in North & Central India: IMD
30-Mar-2026 11:18 AM
Rain likely to extend into April in North & Central India: IMD
★ The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that rainfall and hailstorms may continue over North and Central India till March 31, with the wet spell likely to extend into April.
★ A series of back-to-back western disturbances is expected to bring rain and thunderstorms during March 30–31, April 3–4, and April 6–8.
★ While this may provide temporary relief from rising heat, it poses a risk to late-sown wheat crops, especially those in grain-filling and maturity stages. Farmers have been advised to expedite harvesting to minimise losses.
★ As per official estimates, India’s wheat production is projected at over 120 million tonnes. However, private assessments indicate possible downside risks due to temperature fluctuations and unseasonal rains.
★ Unseasonal rainfall could reduce wheat output by around 1–1.5% at the national level, with losses rising to 2–3% in severely affected states.
★ Harvesting of chana, lentil, peas, and mustard is currently in full swing, and these crops may also face damage if adverse weather persists.