Rising Temperatures in Maharashtra Could Damage Crops

21-May-2026 05:35 PM

Pune: Issuing a 'Red Alert' for extreme heat in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and the Vidarbha region until May 23, the Meteorological Department has warned that due to the El Niño phenomenon—which is causing rising temperatures and reduced rainfall in Maharashtra—upcoming Kharif crops, as well as fruit and vegetable crops, could suffer damage.

The department stated that the monsoon is expected to reach Mumbai by June 5–6; however, if a cyclonic circulation forms in the Arabian Sea, the onset of the monsoon could be delayed.

The Regional Director of the Meteorological Department observes that crops in Maharashtra may face a greater threat from high temperatures than from low rainfall.

Most crops cultivated in Maharashtra are varieties capable of withstanding a lack of rain for several days; however, they possess very limited resilience against the combined stress of extreme heat and a lack of precipitation.

During the Kharif season, the state primarily cultivates pigeon pea (Tur), soybean, cotton, and sugarcane. Additionally, sorghum (Jowar), pearl millet (Bajra), and maize are also produced. Paddy cultivation, which requires the highest amount of water, is undertaken in a limited area. Due to the influence of El Niño, there is a likelihood of rainfall occurring across the country this time around.