The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has delivered an unwelcome forecast for Pune, as residents prepare to endure continued high temperatures until April 27. According to the latest projections, daytime temperatures are expected to linger between 39-40°C, maintaining the scorching conditions that have gripped the city.
Recent observations show a slight reprieve in temperatures, particularly in Shivajinagar, where the mercury dropped to 37.8°C. However, areas like Lohegaon remain hotspots at 39.2°C. An IMD official noted that this marginal decrease could be attributed to sporadic rainfall and cloudy weather over the past three days. Nevertheless, substantial relief from the relentless heatwave seems unlikely as moisture incursion persists across the state.
Some parts of the city, including Talegaon Dhamdhare, Shirur, Rajgurunagar, and Wadgaonsheri, have witnessed temperatures soaring above 40°C, exacerbating the discomfort for residents. In contrast, Marathwada has experienced a much-needed respite, with a remarkable 825% excess rainfall recorded between April 1 and 21.
While the unseasonal rainfall offers temporary relief from the oppressive heat, it has brought its own set of challenges. Summer crops across the state have borne the brunt of the erratic weather, resulting in significant losses for fruit growers. Reports indicate that lives have been lost, and crops spanning thousands of hectares have been damaged due to the extreme weather conditions.
As Pune grapples with the unpredictability of weather patterns, the IMD urges residents to remain vigilant and adopt necessary precautions to mitigate the adverse effects of the heatwave and unseasonal rainfall. With temperatures set to remain elevated in the coming days, staying informed and taking proactive measures becomes paramount for the well-being of individuals and the community at large.
