Ananya Lohia , Mumbai - Maharashtra is witnessing a prolonged dry spell despite the ongoing monsoon season, with rainfall remaining significantly below normal in most districts. The shortfall has raised concerns among farmers as crucial agricultural activities face uncertainty.

According to the India Meteorological Department, several districts have recorded rainfall deficits of 30 to 40 per cent, while some areas are facing shortages of up to 70 per cent since June 1. Although parts of Konkan and central Maharashtra received above-normal rainfall earlier this month, monsoon activity has weakened, leaving many regions with inadequate soil moisture for farming.

The IMD has forecast only light to moderate rainfall in isolated areas over the coming days, with no major weather warnings in place. Officials say the revival of the monsoon now depends on the formation of low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal, while experts also point to the strengthening El Nino conditions as a key factor behind the uneven rainfall distribution.

With the dry spell expected to continue, farmers are anxiously awaiting the return of widespread monsoon rains as authorities closely monitor evolving weather systems.