Indore: Contrary to the intense dry heat usually associated with May in Indore and western Madhya Pradesh, the opening week of this month is expected to witness active rainfall and thunderstorm activity in parts of Indore and Ujjain divisions, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
IMD Forecast Details
IMD Bhopal scientist Arun Sharma stated that rainfall activity during the first week is expected to remain significant over western Madhya Pradesh. "Maximum temperatures during the first and second weeks are expected to remain normal to below normal across most districts due to continuous weather activity. However, minimum temperatures are likely to stay above normal in many areas," Sharma said.
Historical Climate Context
Historically, May is considered the hottest month for Indore, with dry westerly winds and sharp afternoon heat adding to discomfort. According to IMD climatological data, the city records a mean maximum temperature of 40.4 degrees Celsius during May, while the average minimum temperature remains around 24.6 degrees Celsius, making nights relatively uncomfortable.
Weather experts noted that pre-monsoon thundershowers usually provide temporary relief during May and are commonly linked to heat low developments, wind discontinuity, and occasional western disturbances moving across north India. The city generally records only 13.4 mm average rainfall during the month with nearly one to two rainy days, making this year's forecast of above-normal rainfall activity significant.
Extended Range Forecast
According to IMD's extended range forecast, rainfall activity during week 1 is expected to remain positive across several parts of the state. From May 7 onwards, rainfall is likely to return closer to climatological normal levels through weeks 2, 3, and 4.
Recent Weather Observations
On Friday, Indore recorded a further drop in maximum temperature to 39.4 degrees Celsius, which remained close to normal for the season, while the minimum temperature settled at 23.9 degrees Celsius, making the night relatively warm and humid.
The weather office noted that April witnessed unusually high rainfall across Madhya Pradesh. Against the normal April rainfall of 3.6 mm, the state recorded 8.67 mm rainfall, marking a 138 percent excess. West Madhya Pradesh recorded a 216 percent rainfall departure during the month.
