As Maharashtra gears up for its upcoming elections, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued forecasts indicating above-normal temperatures during the polling period. Scheduled in five phases spanning April 19 to May 20, the elections will see areas like Pune, Maval, Shirur, and Baramati exercise their democratic rights amidst potentially sweltering conditions.
The IMD’s extended long-range temperature forecast, released on March 1, paints a picture of elevated temperatures across the state from March to May. Both minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to surpass seasonal norms, with a surge anticipated from the end of March and persisting through April and May. Parts of Marathwada and Vidarbha regions are particularly vulnerable to heat wave conditions throughout the summer season.
In Pune, citizens can anticipate temperatures above the usual range, a trend mirrored in central Maharashtra and Marathwada. However, Vidarbha is predicted to experience fewer heat waves, while the likelihood of such conditions in Konkan remains low.
Adding to the weather complexities, the IMD forecasts above-normal unseasonal rainfall for central Maharashtra, Marathwada, and certain parts of Vidarbha between March and May. These projections come in the backdrop of prevailing El Niño conditions in the equatorial Pacific, with expectations of a subsequent transition to neutral conditions.
Mrutunjay Mohapatra, director-general of IMD, highlights the importance of staying updated with weather forecasts, particularly during critical periods like elections. With advisories available on the department’s website, citizens and politicians are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions against extreme weather events.
While Pune experienced relatively normal temperatures recently, the looming forecasts serve as a reminder for residents to prepare for potentially challenging weather conditions in the weeks ahead.
