Madhya Pradesh experienced a completely dry period across all divisions over the last two days, a trend that is expected to continue into the first week of March. While maximum temperatures remained steady, the State is bracing for a gradual warming trend. Meteorologists have forecast a rise in maximum temperatures by 2°C to 3°C over the next five days as summer conditions begin to set in. Temperatures are hovering slightly above the seasonal average. In the Gwalior, Chambal, Rewa, Jabalpur, and Sagar divisions, maximum temperatures were recorded 1.7°C to 3.0°C above normal. Night-time temperatures also saw a significant shift, rising markedly by 1.9°C in the Shahdol division and appreciably by 1.1°C in Gwalior.

 

Notably, minimum temperatures in Gwalior, Chambal, and Shahdol remained 3.8°C to 4.4°C above the normal mark, indicating warmer-than-usual nights. Khargone recorded the State’s highest maximum temperature at 34.8°C, while Mandsaur and Pachmarhi shared the lowest minimum at 11.8°C. In the capital city of Bhopal, the maximum temperature settled at 32.4°C with a minimum of 15.6°C. For the next 24 hours, Bhopal is expected to maintain clear skies with average wind speeds of 10–12 kmph, with projected temperatures of 31°C (Max) and 15°C (Min). Several weather systems are currently influencing the region, including an upper air cyclonic circulation over West Rajasthan and a Trough extending across West Madhya Pradesh toward Vidarbha.

 

Additionally, a Subtropical Westerly Jet Stream with core winds of 222 kmph is prevailing over Northwest India. While a fresh Western Disturbance is expected to affect the Western Himalayan region starting March 4, the immediate forecast for Madhya Pradesh remains dry with no active weather warnings. In light of the dry weather, citizens are advised to stay hydrated to prevent dehydration and skin dryness. For the agricultural community, experts suggest applying irrigation based on crop requirements and monitoring for pests. Specifically, the recent cloudy spell has increased the risk of aphids in mustard, radish, and beans. Farmers are advised to use Imidacloprid (0.5 ml/litre) if infestation levels rise. This period also marks the ideal time to begin preparations for summer crops, including spring sugarcane, groundnut, soybean, and maize.