Maharashtra Weather Update: Unseasonal Rains Lash State! Several Districts Hit, IMD Issues Alert for Next Three Days – What’s the Forecast?
Maharashtra Weather Update: Unseasonal Rains Lash State! Several Districts Hit, IMD Issues Alert for Next Three Days – What’s the Forecast?
Widespread and sudden weather changes are being observed across India, and Maharashtra has been no exception. Several districts in the state have been battered by unseasonal rains and hailstorms in recent days. The relentless downpour has not only troubled farmers but also disrupted daily life for many residents.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), heavy rains accompanied by strong winds are expected to continue across much of the state for the next three days. The IMD has also forecast intense rainfall across various parts of the country over the same period. Authorities have urged citizens, especially in vulnerable areas, to take necessary precautions for safety.
The southwest monsoon has officially reached parts of the southern Bay of Bengal, including the southern Andaman Sea, the Nicobar Islands, and northern stretches of the Andaman Sea. Between May 23 and May 28, a powerful cyclone is expected to develop over the Bay of Bengal. Ahead of this, a low-pressure area is likely to form between May 16 and May 18, which may bring pre-monsoon thunderstorms to Karnataka, with possibilities of lightning and light to moderate rainfall in isolated areas.
Karanja, Washim: Hailstorm Causes Major Disruption
On May 14, Karanja town in Washim district experienced a heavy hailstorm that threw normal life into chaos. Waterlogging was reported in multiple areas, even entering shops and disrupting business. Recently constructed roads failed to manage water drainage, forcing residents to bear the brunt. Locals expressed frustration with the civic body and contractors over the poor quality of infrastructure.
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Latur District: Livestock Lost, Mango Orchards Damaged
In Latur district, particularly Udgir taluka, the unseasonal rains have been relentless for four consecutive days, causing severe damage to standing crops and farm produce. Gusty winds and lightning preceded the showers, which have led to tragic losses. In some incidents, lightning strikes caused the death of two buffaloes and one cow, while another buffalo was seriously injured. In one poultry farm, strong winds blew off the roof, resulting in the death of 600 chickens. Reports also mention significant damage to mango orchards and water-soaked fodder, raising concerns over feed shortages for cattle.
Third Day of Rainfall in Coastal Konkan
While hailstorms affected inland Maharashtra, coastal Konkan has also been dealing with unseasonal rain for three consecutive days. In Vaibhavwadi, Sindhudurg district, heavy showers brought some relief from the heatwave for locals, but the agricultural community is facing economic setbacks due to damage to crops and farmlands.
