Climate of Maharashtra

Maharashtra experiences a tropical monsoon type of climate. The most important factor which influences the climate is the towering presence of the Western Ghats which block the monsoon bearing winds coming from the Arabian Sea and cause rainfall. The onset of the monsoons in the early June gives relief to the scorching summers from the month of March.

The climatic conditions become cold from October end. The rainfall plays a very important role in the lives of the people who are involved in agriculture. Most of the rainfall is received by the Konkan and Sahyadrian parts of Maharashtra. In some years the frequency of the rainfall varies along with harsh climatic conditions in summer months, which add to the woe of the peasants.

The annual rainfall of the state can vary from 400 - 6000 mm and occurs for 3 - 4 months in a year. The months of March, April and May, experience very high temperatures which are often accompanied by thunderstorms.

Maximum amount of rainfall occurs in the month of July, while the transition towards the colder climatic conditions occurs in the month of October. Winter touches the state in the month of November and persists till February. The weather is generally pleasant with clear skies and cool gentle wind.

The average annual temperature of Maharashtra remains 25 - 27 degree centigrade in most regions. The total annual rainfall varies in different regions and so does the temperature.

In the summer months the climatic conditions become very unpleasant with shortage of even drinking water.


Last Updated on : 21 May 2013