IMD Forecasts Heavy Rain, Hailstorms and Strong Winds Across Maharashtra, Farmers Urged to Safeguard Crops (30 March to 3 April)

Maharashtra’s weather department has issued a cautionary alert for unseasonal rain, hail and winds through early April. Farmers are being advised to take precautions to protect crops and livestock from storm impacts.

Maharashtra | March 31, 2026: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a statewide weather alert indicating unstable atmospheric conditions in Maharashtra from March 31 to April 3, 2026, with forecasts of thunderstorms, lightning, heavy winds, hailstorms and moderate rainfall affecting many regions. Western Maharashtra, Marathwada, Vidarbha and parts of Konkan are expected to see the most significant weather activity, with wind speeds potentially reaching 30–60 km/h in several districts.

The IMD has categorised weather risks with Orange Alerts and Yellow Alerts in multiple districts on March 31 and continuing into early April. Overcoming unseasonal dry spells, clouds and storm activity may develop in Nashik, Jalgaon, Ahmednagar, Pune, Solapur, Satara, Sangli and extended areas across central and eastern Maharashtra. Officials emphasised that hailstorm potential remains high in selected pockets, directly threatening standing crops. Given that many rabi crops such as wheat, maize, and jowar are either in the final phase of harvesting or stored in open fields, farmers are urged to take immediate protective measures. Covering harvested produce with waterproof sheets, moving grain and sensitive produce into secure storage, and providing sturdy shelter for livestock are being recommended to prevent rain and wind damage.

Past days have already seen similar warnings and actual thunderstorms in parts of the state, with farmers facing losses due to sudden winds and hail in areas like Nashik and Vidarbha. The agriculture department’s advisory underscores the need for caution during lightning, advising people to avoid open fields, trees or metal structures during storms. While the rain may ease recent heat, the timing of the storm system threatens crops and farming activity at a critical stage of the agricultural calendar. Local authorities continue to monitor conditions and are coordinating with district administrations to support farmers with weather updates and safety advisories.

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