Maharashtra Weather: IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Rain and Thunderstorms in Many Districts from Tomorrow
Mumbai, March 17, 2026: The India Meteorological Department (IMC) has issued a Yellow Alert for several districts across Maharashtra, predicting a spell of rough weather characterized by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds over the next few days.
According to the latest bulletin, isolated places in the state are likely to experience light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning on March 18 and 19. Winds are expected to reach speeds of 30 to 40 kilometers per hour during the events.
The forecast, based on IMD model guidance, indicates that thunderstorm activity is likely to commence over parts of interior Maharashtra on Tuesday (March 18) and continue into the following day.
Districts on Alert
The warning covers a wide swath of the state. Thunderstorms with gusty winds are expected in the following regions:
- Western Maharashtra: Pune, Kolhapur, Satara, Sangli, Ahilyanagar
- North Maharashtra: Nashik, Dhule, Nandurbar, Jalgaon
- Vidarbha: Akola, Amravati, Bhandara, Chandrapur, Nagpur, Gondia, Wardha, Gadchiroli, Washim, Yavatmal
- Marathwada: Beed, Hingoli, Nanded, Latur, Dharashiv
- Konkan: Raigad, Ratnagiri
Meanwhile, the coastal districts of Sindhudurg, Palghar, Thane, and Mumbai are likely to witness light rain or thundershowers during the same period.
Expert Advisory
Reiterating the warning, K.S. Hosalikar, Scientist and former Head of Climate Research & Services at IMD Pune, stated, “IMD model guidance for 18th Mar indicate possibility of thunderstorm activities with gusty winds over parts of interior Maharashtra & around at isolated places. Model also suggest TS activity likely to continue on 19 Mar. 18-20 Mar.” He urged residents to watch for official IMD updates and stay safe during the thunderstorms.
Authorities have advised citizens to take precautions, such as staying indoors during thunderstorms, avoiding open fields and tall isolated trees, and unplugging electronic appliances to prevent damage from lightning strikes.
