Archive · 27 Sep 2026
Maharashtra Prepares for El Nino Amid Widespread Drought
A large part of Maharashtra is facing a serious drought.
The government has officially declared drought in 265 talukas, or about three-quarters of the state.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said an El Nino weather pattern may become strongest around February 2027.
The government is preparing early for possible problems caused by it.
Twelve relief measures will be provided in areas officially declared drought-affected.
Other areas will be checked and may receive help if crop damage is found.
Officials are saving water mainly for people and animals through July or August.
At the same time, teams are watching floods in parts of Gadchiroli and moving people to safer places.
Maharashtra has declared drought in 265 talukas, covering around 75% of the state.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said El Nino could peak around February 2027 before weakening.
The government will implement 12 relief measures immediately in drought-declared talukas.
Excluded talukas will be reassessed, with eligible farmers receiving support under the Trigger III mechanism.
District administrations are prioritizing drinking water as floods affect Bhamragad and parts of Gadchiroli.
- Who
- Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, state and district administrations, farmers, and drought-affected residents.
- What
- The Maharashtra government is preparing for drought and a possible El Nino impact while monitoring flooding in parts of Gadchiroli.
- When
- The drought response is ongoing; El Nino is expected by experts to peak around February 2027, while water reserves are planned through July-August.
- Where
- Across Maharashtra, including Nagpur, Bhamragad, and Gadchiroli; flooding was linked to heavy rainfall in neighbouring Chhattisgarh.
- Why
- To protect drinking-water supplies, support affected farmers and residents, and respond to possible worsening weather conditions.
- Drought declaration
- 265 talukas, covering around 75% of Maharashtra
- Relief measures
- 12 measures to be implemented immediately in drought-declared talukas
- El Nino forecast
- Experts cited by the Chief Minister expect it to peak around February 2027 and then weaken
- Water priority
- District administrations have been instructed to give drinking water the highest priority
- Water reserves
- Reserves are planned for drinking purposes until July-August
- Additional assistance
- Excluded talukas may receive support under the Trigger III mechanism after crop-damage assessment
- Flood response
- Rescue teams have been deployed where required in flood-affected areas of Bhamragad and Gadchiroli