Mumbai: The Maharashtra government today issued an advisory asking farmers in the state to delay sowing till there is sufficient rainfall. The government said even though monsoon has arrived in Kerala, it is yet to reach Maharashtra.

"Even after rains do arrive, farmers should not hurry to start the sowing process," it stated. As per the advisory, pre-monsoon showers are expected to hit Vidarbha, Marathwada and Central Maharashtra after June 1, but temperatures will remain high.

During this period, Mumbai and the Konkan region will experience cloudy weather with a scattered rainfall.
"At the same time, people in Vidarbha, Marathwada and Central Maharashtra should remain cautious about the cloudy weather and lightning and take precautionary measures," the advisory stated.

The government has further warned people to not take shelter under trees, in empty spaces, under tin sheds and near electricity poles during cloudy weather, when there are increased chances of lightning.