India, June 20 -- The southwest monsoon is likely to make further progress over Maharashtra from June 23, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in its latest forecast issued on Friday. However, it is not yet clear whether the advancement will first occur over western Maharashtra or Vidarbha.

"Rainfall conditions are likely to improve, particularly in southern Maharashtra, from June 22 onwards. It is too early to comment on July rainfall at this stage. The forecast for July and August will be issued by the end of June. For Pune, no major activity is expected for the next four days," said Sudeep Kumar, scientist, IMD.

The progress of the monsoon in Maharashtra has been stalled for nearly 12 days, while its onset over Pune has bee...