In the midst of a strong El Niño, Wayanad experiences a spike in September temperatures
Annual average minimum and maximum temperatures recorded in Wayanad between September 1 and 17 (2023 to 2026). | Photo credit: Special arrangement
Amid fears of a strong El Niño, climate data released by the Hume Weather Lab of the Hume Center for Ecology and Wildlife Biology shows a remarkable rise in temperatures in Wayanad in the first half of September. Between September 1 and 17, 2026, the average maximum temperature in the mountainous area was 29.2 °C, about 1.9 °C higher than the average for the previous three years, with experts warning of possible impacts on water resources and agriculture.
The average maximum 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 15 September. The highest temperature recorded in Wayanad in 2026 was 34.4 °C in summer on 18 April.
Along with the increase in air temperature, higher soil temperatures were also recorded. Between September 1 and 17, soil temperatures rose to 39 °C. Values above 30 °C were recorded for several days. A significant difference was also observed between soil temperatures measured at open and shaded sites.
The data also reveals that Wayanad fell below normal between September 1 and 17. Only four days of light, isolated rain were recorded during this period. While 34 mm of rainfall was recorded on 14 September, 61 mm was recorded in Lakkidi area on 17 September.
CK Vishnudas, executive director of the Hume Center for Ecology and Wildlife Biology, said unusually high temperatures could increase water stress, accelerate groundwater depletion and affect crops in Wayanad.
“The water table could drop rapidly as groundwater levels drop. Wetland crops, especially paddy fields, could be severely affected by water stress, while cultivated plants in general may also face more pressure. I recently observed a coffee plant flowering in September, probably in response to heat stress. It normally flowers during December, January and February. Such off-season responses need to be closely monitored to understand how these crops respond to these conditions in this area for the first time. against the backdrop of a super El Niño,” he said.
Data from the Hume Center suggests that Wayanad started experiencing a hot and relatively dry period even before the southwest monsoon began to withdraw, with higher day and soil temperatures coinciding with low rainfall. Although the average minimum temperature during the period was 20.9 °C, high soil temperatures indicate significant surface heating in the district.
According to experts, the observations underscore the need for greater attention to water management. Mr. Vishudas added that planning across sectors is needed to reduce water stress and manage water-related risks arising from such weather conditions.
Published – 19 Sep 2026 07:00 IST