The Maharashtra Agriculture Department on Friday issued an important advisory for farmers and citizens after weather forecasts predicted unsettled conditions across several parts of the state between March 17 and March 20.
According to the forecast, many regions may experience cloudy conditions, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds, especially during afternoon hours.
Vidarbha, Marathwada and Central Maharashtra Likely to Be Affected
Officials said the weather disturbance could affect multiple regions, particularly:
- Vidarbha
- Marathwada
- Khandesh
- Central Maharashtra
The department warned that these areas may witness thunderstorms, lightning strikes, and strong winds, with hailstorms also likely in some locations.
Weather experts indicated that the intensity of these events may peak between March 18 and March 20.
Farmers Asked to Protect Harvested Crops
The agriculture department has urged farmers to take precautionary measures, especially as the rabi harvest season is currently underway.
Farmers have been advised to:
- Move harvested crops to safe storage or covered areas
- Protect crops using waterproof sheets or tarpaulins
- Regularly monitor daily weather updates
- Take preventive steps to protect standing crops from hail and strong winds
An official from the agriculture department emphasized that farmers should prioritize crop protection and stay alert to weather updates, particularly due to the risk of lightning and storms.
Why Such Weather Occurs in March
Officials explained that this weather pattern is typical during Maharashtra’s pre-monsoon transition period.
During mid-March, rising land temperatures often create atmospheric instability. When moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal or the Arabian Sea collide with the dry heat over land, convective clouds form, resulting in sudden afternoon thunderstorms.
Critical Time for Rabi Crops
The advisory comes at a crucial time as crops like wheat, gram (chana), and various fruits are either ready for harvest or lying in open fields.
Farmers have been urged to immediately shift harvested produce to covered storage areas or warehouses wherever possible. If indoor storage is not available, crops should be protected using plastic sheets or tarpaulins.
Additional Safety Measures for Farmers
The department also recommended several precautionary measures to reduce potential damage:
- Install anti-hail nets in high-value orchards
- Ensure proper drainage in fields after hailstorms to prevent waterlogging
- Keep livestock in secure shelters
- Avoid keeping animals under trees during thunderstorms
The agriculture department has stressed that timely crop protection, planning, and safety measures can significantly reduce potential losses during extreme weather events.
