Amid strong El Niño, Wayanad sees sharp rise in September temperatures

Amid concerns over a strong El Niño, climate data released by the Hume Weather Lab of the Hume Centre for Ecology and Wildlife Biology show a notable rise in temperatures in Wayanad in the first half of September. Between September 1 and 17, 2026, the average maximum temperature in the hill district stood at 29.2°C, around 1.9°C higher than the average for the previous three years, with experts warning of potential impacts on water resources and agriculture.

The average high during this period was 27.3°C in 2023, 27.2°C in 2024, and 27.3°C in 2025.

For seven consecutive days, from September 11 to 17, the maximum temperature remained above 30°C. The highest temperature recorded during the period was 30.7°C on September 15. The highest temperature recorded in Wayanad in 2026 was 34.4°C in summer on April 18.

Along with the rise in air temperature, higher soil temperatures were also recorded. Between September 1 and 17, soil temperatures rose to as high as 39°C. Readings above 30°C were recorded on several days. A significant difference was also observed between soil temperatures measured in open and shaded locations.

The data also reveal that Wayanad received below-normal rainfall between September 1 and 17. Only four days of light, isolated rainfall were recorded during the period. While 34 mm of rain was recorded on September 14, 61 mm was recorded in the Lakkidi area on September 17.

C.K. Vishnudas, executive director of the Hume Centre for Ecology and Wildlife Biology, said the unusually high temperatures could increase water stress, accelerate groundwater depletion and affect crops in Wayanad.

“The water table could decline rapidly as groundwater levels fall. Wetland crops, particularly paddy, could be severely affected by water stress, while cultivated plants in general may also face greater pressure. I recently observed a coffee plant flowering in September, possibly in response to heat stress. Normally, flowering occurs during December, January and February. Such off-season responses need to be closely observed to understand how crops respond to these conditions. This is perhaps the first time we are observing such impacts in the district against the backdrop of a super El Niño,” he said.

The Hume Centre data indicate that Wayanad has started to experience a hot and relatively dry spell even before the southwest monsoon begins to withdraw, with higher daytime and soil temperatures coinciding with low rainfall. Though the average minimum temperature during the period was 20.9°C, the high soil temperatures point to significant surface heating in the district.

According to experts, the observations underline the need for greater attention to water management. Planning is needed across sectors to reduce water stress and manage water-related risks arising from such weather conditions, Mr. Vishudas added.