Maharashtra to receive above-normal rainfall in September | IMD
Pune, September 01, 2025: Maharashtra is set to receive above-normal rainfall in September, according to the monthly outlook released by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The forecast suggests that most parts of the state will benefit from active monsoon conditions, while the Konkan belt and some pockets of southern Marathwada and central Maharashtra may see normal to below-normal rainfall.
The IMD has also ruled out the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon at least in the first half of September. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, director-general of meteorology at IMD, said during a virtual briefing that a fresh weather system is expected to form over the Bay of Bengal in the coming days, bringing widespread rain across several parts of the country. “The short-term forecast clearly shows that there is no chance of withdrawal of the monsoon till mid-September,” he said.
Maharashtra experienced an active monsoon phase in August. The state recorded 331.8 mm of rainfall between August 1 and 31, which is 18% above the normal of 280.2 mm. Central Maharashtra received 217.5 mm against the normal 201.2 mm, while Vidarbha registered 278.3 mm compared to the normal 297.1 mm. Both these regions were within the normal range. Marathwada recorded a sharp surplus with 290.9 mm of rainfall against the normal 176.8 mm, around 65% above average. The Konkan region, known for heavy rain, also saw excess rainfall with 1,014.5 mm against the normal 741.7 mm, about 37% higher.
For September, the forecast indicates a mixed pattern. While most of Maharashtra is expected to receive above-normal rainfall, the Konkan belt along with some parts of Marathwada and central Maharashtra could see normal to below-normal showers. This uneven distribution may affect agriculture, especially in paddy-growing areas of Konkan that depend on steady rainfall.
Explaining the larger climate factors, Mohapatra noted that neutral El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions are prevailing over the equatorial Pacific and are likely to continue till the season ends. The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is also neutral for now, with forecasts suggesting a weak negative phase later, though it is not expected to have a major impact.
The IMD has shared detailed rainfall forecast maps with state and central authorities to help them prepare for any possible disruptions. “It is important to plan in advance to avoid any mishaps that may occur due to heavy or uneven rainfall distribution,” Mohapatra added.
