Maharashtra could face a warmer period ahead as El Nino strengthens over the Pacific, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) expecting the climate pattern to intensify further between October and December and potentially reach the ‘very strong’ category.

The developing El Nino is being closely watched for its possible impact on rainfall, temperatures and water resources. The IMD had forecast below-normal rainfall for the 2026 southwest monsoon, revising its forecast from 92 per cent to 90 per cent of the long-period average (LPA). The department said El Nino was weak in June and strengthened to moderate levels in July, with further strengthening possible towards the end of the year.