India, Feb. 1 -- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday predicted warm and dry weather in February, warning that above-normal temperatures are likely to accelerate crop growth and shorten the duration of Rabi crops, particularly in northwest and central regions.

The forecast of fewer and less intense western disturbances (WDs) means day and night temperatures will likely be above normal, with below-normal rainfall expected over most parts of northwest India, the weather department said. Independent experts added that a short spring season is likely.

"We have provided specific warnings and advice for the Rabi crop this time. At this point we can only speculate that day temperatures are expected to be high because of fewer ...