Pune, 17th June 2026: For more than a week, southwest monsoon winds has remained virtually stationary over Maharashtra, raising concerns over delayed rainfall across the state. After reaching parts of the southern Konkan coast and extending up to Solapur on June 8, the monsoon has shown little further progress.
Weather experts said that the slowdown is due to weak monsoon winds, the influence of hot northwesterly winds, and a cyclonic circulation pattern over the Arabian Sea that is preventing the system from advancing deeper into the state. These factors have reduced the strength of moisture-bearing winds, delaying the onset of widespread rainfall.
A change in weather conditions is expected around June 23, which could help the monsoon regain momentum. If conditions improve as anticipated, the monsoon may advance along the Maharashtra coast, including Mumbai, during the following week.
Between June 25 and July 1, widespread monsoon rainfall is likely across Mumbai, the Konkan region, and other parts of western Maharashtra. Once the monsoon becomes established over the coast, it is expected to cross the Sahyadri ranges and spread into the interior districts of Madhya Maharashtra.
The progress of the Bay of Bengal branch of the monsoon will be crucial for rainfall in Vidarbha and Marathwada. Although this branch advanced rapidly last week, its movement has slowed due to the absence of supporting weather systems.
However, it is expected to become active again during the last week of June, increasing the chances of rainfall in eastern Maharashtra.
Meanwhile, heatwave-like conditions may persist in parts of Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada, and Vidarbha until June 19. Coastal districts in Konkan are likely to experience hot and humid weather, along with uncomfortable nights due to high moisture levels.
The delay in monsoon has also created uncertainty for farmers awaiting sowing rains. Experts believe the influence of El Niño and weak monsoon currents have reduced the strength of incoming moisture-laden winds.
As a result, significant rainfall suitable for sowing may not occur until the end of June. A clearer assessment of the agricultural situation is expected after July 1, depending on how weather conditions evolve.
