Soaked to scorched: Marathwada experiences weather extremes in May

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Marathwada’s May weather swung from one extreme to another within a year. While the region’s eight districts received 197mm of rainfall (12 times the normal of 16mm) last May, negligible rainfall was received this May, leaving the residents battling with one of the harshest heat the region has experienced in a decade.

Several parts of the drought-prone region experienced unusual flood-like situations last May. "There were flood-like conditions in various areas in May last year, something rare for Marathwada. This year, however, we have only seen intense heat and no rainfall,” a resident said.

According to official data, districts like Dharashiv (298mm) and Latur (238mm) recorded the highest rainfall in May 2025 among the eight districts. This year, however, rainfall remained far below those levels, with the region receiving only about 94% of the already low May average.

But, temperatures surged significantly. On May 12, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar recorded a peak of 43.6°C, its highest in the past decade, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The mercury stayed consistently above normal levels throughout the month, frequently crossing the 40°C-mark and causing widespread discomfort.

Weather experts attributed the stark variation to differing climatic conditions. KK Dakhore, an agricultural meteorologist at Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Agricultural University in Parbhani, said last year’s excessive rainfall was driven by multiple low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea.

In contrast, this year’s suppressed pre-monsoon activity and rising temperatures are linked to El Nino conditions. “El Nino leads to warmer sea surface temperatures in the Pacific, which often results in drier weather across Asia. This may affect monsoon progress and lead to a subdued rainy season,” Dakhore said.

He said the onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala, typically expected around June 1, has already been delayed and is now likely after June 3. “This delay may impact Marathwada as well. Though some pre-monsoon showers are expected in the region this week, the overall late onset of monsoon could delay kharif sowing," he added.

Amid concerns over a possible water and agricultural crisis due to El Nino, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced precautionary measures. Govt has accelerated water conservation efforts and directed authorities to prepare district-specific contingency plans.