Land-locked regions of Maharashtra, especially Vidarbha, have been experiencing intense heat with temperatures frequently crossing 40°C.

Amraoti has been among the hottest places in the country, while cities like Akola, Washim, Wardha, Nagpur, Chandrapur and Yeotmal have also recorded scorching conditions in early March.

However, relief is on the way as pre-monsoon weather activity is expected to begin soon. Weather systems moving across North India have shifted an anticyclone towards Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, while moist winds from the eastern coast are increasing instability.

Thunderstorms with lightning, gusty winds and scattered showers are likely between March 18 and March 20 across Vidarbha, Marathwada and parts of Madhya Maharashtra.

Isolated hailstorms are also possible, which may affect standing crops in some areas.