Many parts of Gujarat and Maharashtra are witnessing above normal temperatures since the last few days. Both day and night temperatures over many districts of Maharashtra are significantly above normal. Parts of Madhya Maharashtra, Vidarbha and Marathwada are also witnessing day and night temperatures significantly above normal.
Warm winds form east, and southeast direction are blowing across Maharashtra. Many parts of Gujarat are also experiencing dry and warm wind from east. Day and night temperatures over many districts in both the states are 5 to 7 degrees above normal. Warm winters are not beneficial for Rabi crops. Temperatures must dip for healthy crops. Unfortunately, we do not foresee any significant change in temperature profile of both the states for at least next one week.
Another reason for warm temperatures can be attributed to the absence of snowfall over Hills of Western Himalayas as well as the wind direction. Wind direction should be from north or north northeast for temperatures to dip. But for the next one week or so, wind direction is not going to change therefore Gujarat and Maharashtra have to wait longer for arrival of winters.
