Maharashtra heatwave is more severe than ever before when compared with neighboring states known to historically experience extremely high temperatures, such as Rajasthan. With records showing high temperatures this year already (April 2026), IMD has recorded some of these high temperatures, 46.9°C in several locations across the country. Long-term data on climate shows that since 1901, India has been warming about 0.7°C per year and that there has been an increase in frequency, length, and number of heatwaves, all of which have contributed to increased risk of heat stress and related mortality rates across large parts of India, particularly in Maharashtra.

Studies done by WMO and other agencies support the observation of an increasing number of heatwave days per decade across India since the 1980s.

What Made Maharashtra Hotter Than Rajasthan This Time?

The Maharashtra heatwave is unusual for many reasons: Vidarbha region, including Akola and Amravati, recorded temperatures of 46.9°C and 46.8°C, respectively, surpassing those of some of the desert regions in Rajasthan (for example, Barmer).

The explanation lies in the weather patterns that developed over India. In Maharashtra, the skies were mostly clear, there was high solar energy, and little wind, leading to all of the heat being trapped at the surface of the Earth. By contrast, parts of Rajasthan had somewhat moist winds and some wind movement, which helped prevent extreme heat peaks.

Adding to this situation is moisture from the ocean, along with winds blowing from the sea into central and southern India, which made everything feel hotter. For instance, the dry, hot weather often found in Rajasthan allows perspiration to evaporate quickly from our skin. In contrast, the added humidity in Maharashtra made temperatures feel much higher than they actually were. This is commonly referred to by meteorologists as a higher “heat index”.

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How Local Geography and Weather Patterns Played a Role

Local geography had a significant impact on the Maharashtra heatwave. The interior location of Vidarbha, along with its sparse vegetation and arid surface, makes the area prone to quick warming.

Whereas coastal Maharashtra is favored by sea breeze systems, inland areas will have:

• Limited air circulation
• Low cloud cover
• Greater heat absorption by the land surface

On the other hand, the harsh desert climate of Rajasthan, although extreme, may sometimes enjoy heat dispersion through winds. Such an anomaly could result in situations where non-desert areas are warmer than desert areas.

Also Read: Study Warns Global Heatwaves And Droughts Could Intensify By 2100

Is the Heatwave in Maharashtra Made Worse by Climate Change?

Indeed, the general climate trend is causing heatwaves such as these to become increasingly common. IPCC studies show that heat waves in South Asia have been growing increasingly intense and prevalent as a result of global warming.

In India:

• 2023 and 2024 were some of the warmest years recorded in the world
• The heatwaves are now coming sooner (starting from February-March)
• The duration of heat waves has increased

Also Read: Nordic Heatwave Highlights Record-Breaking Year of Extreme Temperatures Across Europe, Report Finds

Summer Heat Wave Arrives Early Over India

Summer has hit early this year. Heat wave conditions have already started building up from February to March, months before the usual seasonal trends.

In April:

• India had 95 of the top 100 global cities experiencing high temperatures (April 24, 2026)
• States such as Maharashtra, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha registered temperatures over 44°C

The extensive heat wave conditions suggest that the phenomenon is an indication of a broader weather pattern change.

Also Read: Humid Heat In India: The Emerging Climate Threat

Why Does Humidity Make Heat Even More Unbearable?

Humidity is an essential component of the heatwave. As humidity rises in the atmosphere,

• Sweat is less effectively dissipated.
• The body finds cooling difficult.
• “Feels like” temperatures become higher than what is measured

That is why a humid heat of 46°C feels much worse than a dry heat at 46°C in the deserts.

Also Read: Extreme Heat Disrupts Everyday Life In India More Than Globally, Study Finds

What Lies Ahead for India’s Weather?

As per predictions by the IMD, severe weather due to heat will prevail for a few weeks ahead in various regions of central and northern India. Yet there is some hope in sight for the near future.

Several western disturbances are predicted to result in:

• Dust storms
• Thunderstorms
• Rainfall

These weather systems could cause temperatures below 42°C in parts of northern India, such as Rajasthan. But according to experts, this relief will not last long, and heat will return by May.

Also Read: Warming Climate Drives Decline Of Brazil’s Abrolhos Coral Reefs

A Warning Sign for the Future

The extreme Maharashtra heatwave this year is an indication of the significant change that continues to occur in climate change throughout India. The increase in temperatures outside of historically warm places such as Rajasthan further illustrates how difficult and complex it has become for us to understand what heat means, given the effects of climate change, humidity, and local geography on heat around the world.

To address the increased danger of extreme heat, we need to improve climate adaptation programs, develop better urban planning policies, and raise public awareness of its dangers.

Also Read: Warming Climate Is Altering Arctic Rivers Differently Across Regions

FAQs

1. Why is Maharashtra hotter than Rajasthan?

While Maharashtra witnessed sunny weather, heat retention, and humidity, Rajasthan witnessed dry winds and air circulation, which did not allow the formation of extreme temperatures.

2. What is the highest temperature registered in this Maharashtra Heatwave?

Akola, Maharashtra, recorded the highest temperature at 46.9 °C, while Amravati registered 46.8°C.

3. Will this heatwave go on in India?

Yes, the IMD states that heatwaves are going to continue in India. However, there will be short intervals where rain and thunderstorms will cool down temperatures.

Also Read: How To Survive Heatwaves In The City: Practical Tips For Urban Living