Potential impact on crops - Unseasonable Heat Persists into March

Unseasonable heat in north and north-western India is set to persist into March, potentially impacting a key time of the year for wheat farmers.

As temperatures soared this week, there is little respite to be found in the new month. Highs are expected to remain around 7 degrees above average for the states of Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Madhya Pradesh.

While It is important for all to stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sun hours, these states produce around 80% of the country's wheat and rapeseed output, with the heat set to disrupt the year's crops.

The heat in the north and north-west has persisted for days, meanwhile some central and southern regions can also expect to see highs reaching above average.

For now, these remain around the average for late February, but gradually grow warmer in the coming days into the weekend.