Mumbai: The Agriculture Department has warned of thunderstorms, rain and gusty winds across parts of Maharashtra between March 17 and March 20, urging farmers to take precautions to protect harvested crops.

According to the preliminary weather forecast, cloudy conditions are likely to develop mainly in the afternoon during this period, leading to thunderstorms accompanied by rain and strong winds in several regions of the state.

As per the current forecast, the weather activity is expected to affect Vidarbha, Marathwada, Khandesh and parts of Central Maharashtra. Officials have also not ruled out the possibility of light hailstorms along with lightning and gusty winds in some areas.

Meteorological observations suggest that the intensity of these weather conditions may increase between March 18 and March 20, raising concerns about possible damage to standing and harvested crops.

The Agriculture Department has advised farmers to closely monitor updated weather forecasts over the next few days and plan their agricultural activities accordingly.

With Rabi crop harvesting currently underway, farmers have been urged to store harvested produce in safe locations or cover it properly to prevent damage from rain, strong winds and potential hailstorms.

Authorities have appealed to farmers to take necessary precautions to minimise crop losses during the expected spell of unstable weather conditions.