Over 20% rainfall deficit in Marathwada in first week of June

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Marathwada has seen a 22% rainfall deficit so far this June amid limited and weak pre-monsoon activity, with the eight districts in the region receiving an average of 21mm of showers since June 1, compared with the normal 27mm for the period.In the 24 hours ending Saturday morning, parts of the region received light pre-monsoon showers, with Beed recording 12mm, followed by Dharashiv (11mm), Nanded (9mm), Latur (8mm) and Parbhani (8mm). Other areas saw sparse rainfall, including Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Hingoli at 3mm each) and Jalna at 1mm, official data showed.Citing the extended regional forecast, agricultural meteorologist KK Dakhore from Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Agricultural University in Parbhani said rainfall in the region was likely to remain below average till June 11, followed by slightly above-normal showers till June 18. “Since this is pre-monsoon rainfall, farmers should avoid rushing into sowing. Although the monsoon has reached Maharashtra, its full onset will take some time,” he said.Earlier, isolated areas in districts like Beed and Nanded experienced intermittent spells of light to moderate rainfall accompanied by strong winds, which caused some agricultural damage.Meanwhile, the lack of consistent pre-monsoon showers has resulted in hot and humid conditions. Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 39.7°C on Saturday, about 3° above normal. Residents said both days and nights had become uncomfortably warm. “The use of airconditioners, coolers and fans continues even as the first week of June ends. Only a couple of heavy showers can help bring down the temperature,” Vaishali Kale, a homemaker, said.