According to Skymet, rain and thunderstorms are expected in several parts of Maharashtra by today evening. Beginning by affecting Vidarbha and Marathwada on 10th and 11th April, rain belt will move towards Madhya Maharashtra by Sunday afternoon.
"The simultaneous occurrence of both systems-the western disturbance in the north and the easterly wave activity in the south, can trigger hailstorms in parts of Maharashtra. Another factor is the exceedingly high temperature in the southern parts, including Maharashtra (known as heat-pockets) during the pre-monsoon season," explains G.P. Sharma, chief meteorologist, Skymet Weather Services.
A low-level cyclonic circulation can already be seen over north Maharashtra and south Madhya Pradesh that is likely to become well marked by evening. By April 11, one more system will build up in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab region, which will give light rain in North India for two days.
Temperatures in Maharashtra
Due to active weather systems over Maharashtra, both day and night temperatures will witness marginal difference over the next few days. The day temperatures that are currently normal, will drop by 2-3 degrees and will settle below normal. Night temperatures, however, are likely to rise during the next few days due to cloudy weather. Places to be most affected include Yeotmal, Wardha, Kolhapur, Nagpur and Amravati.
Effect on Crops
Already reeling under nature’s fury, farmers in parts of Maharashtra are in for another blow of the inclement weather as heavy rain along with hailstorm is likely to dampen the harvest this year. Customers too may have to shell out more in order to purchase grapes and mangoes this summer season as untimely rain and hail has caused widespread damage to the production of star fruits in several parts of Maharashtra and is likely to cause further damage.