Mumbai and its surrounding metropolitan areas are set to receive above-normal rainfall this monsoon, as per the IMD’s 2025 forecast. The outlook extends across Maharashtra, including the drought-prone Marathwada region, bringing renewed hope to water-scarce districts like Aurangabad, Beed, and Nanded.

India's southwest monsoon (June–September) is expected to be above-normal this year, with rainfall projected at 105% of the Long Period Average (LPA), according to the IMD. This is promising news for regions like Marathwada including Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Parbhani, and Beed, where consistent water shortages could ease if rains hold steady through the season.

Last year's 108% LPA monsoon helped revive reservoir levels and crop yields, and a repeat performance could benefit kharif crops like paddy and pulses. The forecast is driven by the absence of El Niño and below-average Eurasian snow cover. However, experts caution that heavier spells could increase flood risks. An updated IMD outlook is expected in May, but preparations are already underway for a wetter-than-usual monsoon.