IMD forecasts warmer than normal November for Maharashtra, citing El Nino

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said in its monthly forecast that days in Maharashtra may stay hotter than normal throughout November. The department expects El Nino to affect weather patterns across the state.

The IMD has said higher temperatures are more likely to stay above normal in most parts of Maharashtra in November, and daytime temperatures are expected to remain high. Minimum temperatures, however, may be below normal in some parts of Central Maharashtra and Marathwada. In the remaining areas, nights too may be warmer than normal.

According to the IMD, the El Nino phenomenon is one reason behind the likelihood of above-normal temperatures. When sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean stay warmer than average, atmospheric circulation can be affected. This can change rainfall and temperature patterns around the world.

The forecast comes after Maharashtra experienced extreme heat in October. According to the IMD, Central India, including Maharashtra, recorded its fourth-highest average maximum temperature and third-highest average temperature for October.

The weather department has indicated that very strong El Nino conditions may persist through November and December, and the effect may continue in the coming months.

IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said the phenomenon will peak in November and then weaken gradually. He added, however, that its effect could last until March next year.

Despite the forecast of higher temperatures, some parts of Maharashtra may also receive above-normal rain in November. Meteorologists have cautioned, however, that November is usually a fairly dry month, so normal or above-normal rainfall does not mean heavy rain.

The IMD has also stressed that its rainfall forecast carries considerable regional variation, which is why it must be read in terms of the actual quantity of rain. With temperatures expected to stay above normal in most of the state, people may have to endure persistent warmth even in the winter season.