The climate of Maharashtra keeps on changing at short intervals of time. Typically a monsoon type, there are hot and cold seasons that alternate with each others. The summers are usually hot and humid; the winters are not very cold, this can be attributed to the proximity of the state to Arabian Sea.
Months of summer :
Months between March and May are the hottest. Season of April and May often see thunderstorms that are indications of the upcoming monsoon season. As the month of June approaches, whole state is drenched with monsoons. Highest rainfall occurs in the month of July and August. In September, one sees the retreating of Monsoons.
October Heat :
The end of rainy season marks the advent of winter. October is, actually, the period of transition from rainy to winter. The famous" October Heat" is prevalent in this month and is marked with abundant sunshine and heavy humidity.
Months of winter :
The months of December, January, and February are the coldest ones though the temperature never gets too down. This season is marked with cool breezes, and clear skies. Some eastern areas also get rainfall during this season. This season is favorable for the growth of many crops like wheat, grapes, and linseed.
Variability of rainfall :
Different regions of the state receive different amount of rainfall. The climate of Maharashtra is unpredictable as far as the rainfall distribution is concerned. The Sahyadri and Konkan receive the maximum amount; in the central part, precipitation is low. Regions like Nasik, Satara, Pune, and Kohlapur receive scanty rainfall while Thane, Ratnagiri, and Raigad get heavy showers. The eastern part of Maharashtra is the recipient of more precipitation as compared to the other parts. This is due to the monsoon coming from Bay of Bengal. The non-uniform distribution has huge impact on the agriculture and other industries. Excessive floods that devastated Mumbai recently is an example in this regard.
The average temperature in summer ranges from 22-39 degree Celsius. The winter temperatures vary between 12-14 degrees Celsius. |