Maharashtra’s rainfall deficit has remained at 16% as the India Meteorological Department expects the southwest monsoon to begin withdrawing from western Rajasthan around 19 September, according to a report by Loksatta. Most parts of the state are forecast to receive light to moderate showers over the next few days, while maximum temperatures may rise by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius.
The recent influence of a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal brought rain to several parts of Maharashtra during the past two to three days. Thunderstorms were recorded in parts of Marathwada, Vidarbha, north-central Maharashtra and central Maharashtra, with the strongest rainfall activity reported in the northern parts of the state.
The low-pressure system is currently active over southeast Rajasthan, adjoining Gujarat and parts of southwest Madhya Pradesh. Its influence over Maharashtra has weakened, and the India Meteorological Department has forecast a reduction in storm activity. Several parts of the state may continue to receive light to moderate showers, but the report said that rainfall remains uneven across the region.
The wider rainfall deficit is also visible in the national figures. India has recorded a 15% rainfall shortfall for the season, while Maharashtra’s deficit is reported at 16%. The uneven distribution means that recent rainfall in some districts has not eliminated the shortage across the state.
The possible withdrawal of the monsoon is significant for Maharashtra because the retreat marks the beginning of a drier period, even though isolated rainfall can continue in different regions. The monsoon generally starts withdrawing from western Rajasthan around 17 September and completes its retreat from the country by 15 October. Last year, the withdrawal began on 14 September.
The report attributed concerns over a worsening drought situation to the possibility of a prolonged absence of widespread rainfall. It also noted that this year’s monsoon season has been influenced by an El Nino condition in the Pacific Ocean, alongside an uneven rainfall pattern.
For cities and towns, the shift to warmer and drier conditions will make the balance between rainfall storage, water demand and local supply more important in the coming weeks. The report said that the easing of rainfall has already been accompanied by a rise in sultry conditions in several areas. The India Meteorological Department’s next five-day forecast, including the expected temperature increase and the continuation of light to moderate showers, will determine the immediate weather outlook.
