Akola Sizzles As Temperatures Breach 40 Deg C In Early March

Akola: Intense heat has engulfed Akola early in March, with temperatures already crossing the 40°C mark and raising concerns among residents and experts alike. The sharp rise in temperature has made people feel as if summer months like April and May have arrived in advance.

According to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Akola has consistently recorded high temperatures during the first ten days of March. On March 1, the maximum temperature was recorded at 36.6°C. It rose to 38.5°C on March 2 and continued to climb in the following days — 38.6°C on March 3, 39.3°C on March 4 and 39.5°C on March 5.

The mercury crossed the 40°C mark on March 6 when the temperature reached 40.7°C. It further climbed to 40.8°C on March 7 and peaked at 40.9°C on March 8. On March 9, the temperature stood at 40.4°C, while on March 10 it was recorded at 40.7°C. On March 2 and March 8, Akola reportedly recorded the highest temperature in the country for those days, highlighting the intensity of the heat in the region.

Akola is traditionally known as one of the hotter districts in Vidarbha, where summer usually begins to intensify by late February. However, the unusual spike in temperatures this year has drawn the attention of climate experts and agricultural scientists.

Scientists from Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth in Akola say several environmental and urban factors are contributing to the rising temperatures. Dr Arvind Tupe, a scientist at the university, said large-scale tree cutting and shrinking green cover in and around the city have significantly affected the local climate.

Trees play a crucial role in regulating temperature. The reduction in green cover leads to higher heat absorption and reduced cooling effects, Tupe explained.

Another important factor is the decline in natural water storage in the region. Earlier, ponds, wells and small water bodies helped maintain soil moisture and moderate local temperatures. However, many of these traditional water sources have disappeared or shrunk over time, contributing to rising heat levels.

Dust pollution in the city is also believed to be playing a role. According to scientists, when sunlight reaches the ground it normally reflects back into the atmosphere. But suspended dust particles interfere with this process, trapping heat closer to the surface and raising temperatures.

Urbanisation has further intensified the problem. The rapid expansion of cement and concrete roads and buildings leads to greater heat absorption and retention, creating what experts describe as a localized ‘urban heat island effect. In addition, deforestation in surrounding areas and limited plantation efforts have worsened the situation.

Dr Tupe also pointed out that the increasing use of air conditioners in homes and vehicles indirectly contributes to higher ambient temperatures. The heat expelled by air-conditioning units adds to the already warm environment, especially in densely populated urban areas.

Experts suggest that improving water conservation and increasing green cover could help reduce rising temperatures. Constructing ponds, small dams and rainwater harvesting systems, as well as storing rainwater for irrigation, could help maintain soil moisture and reduce surface heating. Irrigated farmland also helps keep surrounding areas relatively cooler.

Meanwhile, the rising heat is already affecting daily life in Akola. During the afternoon hours, streets appear relatively deserted as people prefer to stay indoors.

Residents say the early arrival of such intense heat in March is worrying. If temperatures are already crossing 40 degrees in early March, we can only imagine how severe April and May will be, said a local shopkeeper.

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