Maharashtra farmers urged to delay sowing until June 15 rains
Farmers in Maharashtra are being asked to pause their sowing plans because the southwest monsoon is taking its time this year.
Big rains aren't expected until at least June 15, with the monsoon so far only reaching South Konkan areas like Sindhudurg and Ratnagiri.
CM Devendra Fadnavis urges lightning safety
Only parts of South Konkan will get decent rain until June 9; the rest of Maharashtra will mostly see scattered storms and cloudy skies, not enough for planting.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is urging farmers not to rush based on patchy showers. He is also reminding everyone to avoid sheltering under trees or near electric poles during lightning.
Meanwhile, it's getting hot: Vidarbha and Khandesh are hitting over 40 degrees Celsius, while Marathwada stays between 35 and 40 degrees Celsius until June 12.
Officials say it is better to wait for proper monsoon rains before starting any sowing.