Mysuru: Mysuru recorded a maximum temperature of 34.2°C on September 6, matching the city’s highest-ever temperature recorded for the month of September, according to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) observatory in the city. The same temperature was recorded on September 15, 2018.

The unusually high temperature has drawn attention as September is generally associated with the latter phase of the southwest monsoon and a gradual transition towards relatively cooler conditions. The sharp rise in daytime temperatures has instead left residents experiencing heat more commonly associated with the warmer months.

The 34.2°C reading on September 6 is significant because it equals the all-time September maximum for Mysuru in the IMD’s available climatological records. The previous record of 34.2°C was established in 2018.

Temperature nearly 5°C above September normal

The maximum temperature recorded on September 6 was considerably higher than Mysuru’s normal September daytime temperature. According to a Times of India report, the normal maximum temperature for September is around 29.4°C, putting the latest reading nearly 5°C above normal.

The minimum temperature, however, remained relatively comfortable at 19.8°C and showed no departure from the normal level. The city also recorded no rainfall during the 24 hours ending on September 6, according to the Star of Mysore report.

Relative humidity was recorded at 0 per cent at 8.30 am and 48 per cent at 5.30 pm, indicating relatively dry conditions during the period.

The combination of high daytime temperatures and the absence of rainfall has contributed to the unusual weather conditions being experienced across Mysuru.

September heat breaks from usual pattern

September generally marks the transition towards cooler weather as the monsoon continues to influence Karnataka. Meteorologists have described the sharp temperature rise in Mysuru as unusual for the month.

The IMD’s climatological records show that Mysuru’s September temperatures have generally remained below the latest 34.2°C reading. The city’s September maximums recorded in previous years include 33.5°C in 2012, 32.9°C in 2015, 32.1°C in 2016 and 33°C in 2021.

The 34.2°C recorded in 2018 therefore stands out as an exceptional September reading, and the latest observation has now equalled that mark.

The temperature rise also comes after Mysuru recorded another notably warm day earlier this month. According to Times of India, the city recorded 34°C on September 5, making it another unusually hot day for the month.

Dry spell adds to concerns

The high temperature has coincided with subdued monsoon conditions over Karnataka. The Star of Mysore report noted that the state was likely to experience mostly sunny to partly cloudy or overcast conditions, with generally dry weather on September 7. Light to moderate rain was expected at some places.

Such a pattern can contribute to higher daytime temperatures when cloud cover and rainfall are limited. For Mysuru, the lack of rain on September 6 provided little relief from the daytime heat.

The prolonged dry spell has also raised concerns about the continuation of warmer conditions. A Times of India report quoted former Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre director G Srinivasa Reddy as saying the temperature rise could be linked to a developing El Niño-related weather pattern and warning that the dry spell could continue into the latter part of September.

Karnataka likely to see mixed weather

While Mysuru has experienced unusually high temperatures, weather conditions across Karnataka are expected to vary. The Star of Mysore report said subdued monsoon conditions were likely to continue, with light to moderate rain possible at some locations and above-normal maximum temperatures expected in parts of the interior districts.

The IMD’s extended forecast also indicated the possibility of above-normal maximum temperatures in some parts of the country during the first week of September.

For interior Karnataka, the combination of reduced rainfall and higher daytime temperatures could result in warmer afternoons even as mornings and nights remain comparatively cooler.

What the record means for Mysuru

The 34.2°C reading does not by itself indicate a heatwave in Mysuru. Rather, its significance lies in the fact that it matches the city’s highest recorded maximum temperature for September.

Mysuru’s climate is generally associated with moderate temperatures compared with several other parts of Karnataka. A temperature close to 35°C in September is therefore notable, particularly when it occurs during a period when monsoon activity would normally provide some moderation.

The record-equalling temperature also highlights how short-term changes in rainfall and cloud cover can significantly influence local temperatures.

Residents may see more warm afternoons

With dry conditions continuing in parts of Karnataka, Mysuru residents may experience more warm afternoons if rainfall remains limited. At the same time, the relatively lower minimum temperature means that the heat is currently concentrated mainly during the daytime.

Weather conditions could change quickly if monsoon activity strengthens, bringing increased cloud cover and rainfall to the region. Until then, residents may need to remain prepared for warmer-than-usual afternoons.

The September 6 reading is now officially part of Mysuru’s weather record, equalling the 34.2°C maximum recorded on September 15, 2018.