As Holi approaches, parts of North and West India are experiencing a significant rise in temperatures, with many regions recording temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius, indicating an early onset of summer. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings that several areas in northwestern India are likely to experience severe heat in the first week of March, with maximum temperatures expected to exceed normal levels by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius.

The IMD forecasts a gradual increase in daytime temperatures by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius over the next week in the plains of northwestern India. This rise in temperature could exacerbate the heat in areas such as Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and the lower elevations of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, where temperatures are already several degrees above the usual range. Residents are advised to prepare for the increased heat ahead of the festive celebrations.

Meanwhile, in South India, cities such as Erode, Salem, Madurai, Anantapur, and Kurnool are already recording temperatures as high as 37 degrees Celsius, signifying that the heat is not confined to one region. In central India, areas like Akola and Amravati are also experiencing rising temperatures. The announcement signifies a shift in weather patterns, raising concerns over heat-related health issues and the impact on daily life and agriculture as the country moves toward the warmer months.