Trends of temperature and precipitation extreme indices in north Maharashtra

Abstract

Climate change has intensified extreme weather events, posing major challenges to agriculture-dependent regions like Northern Maharashtra. This study analyzed temperature and precipitation extremes across five districts—Nashik, Dhule, Nandurbar, Jalgaon and Ahmednagar using data from 1982 to 2022 with the help of RClimDex model. Key temperature indices, including tropical nights (TR25), warm days (TX90p), and frost days (FD13) showed an increase in warm events and a decline in cool nights and frost days. Reduced diurnal temperature range (DTR) indicated less nighttime cooling, consistent with global warming. For precipitation, extreme rainfall events are rising as indicated by the maximum 1-day precipitation (Rx1day), while consecutive dry days (CDD) are shortening. These shifts heighten risks such as crop heat stress, altered growing seasons, soil erosion, and water management challenges. The study underscores the urgent need for adaptive agricultural strategies, improved irrigation, and early warning systems to mitigate the impacts of climate change and enhance resilience in Northern Maharashtra.