Chill Alert: Maharashtra Set for Below-Normal Temperatures in IMD’s Extended Forecast

Pune, 13th January 2024: The India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) latest extended range forecast indicates an anticipated cool spell sweeping across most parts of Maharashtra starting January 19.

Anupam Kashyapi, head of the weather forecasting division at IMD, Pune, highlighted that maximum temperatures across the state are expected to remain below normal throughout January. Of particular significance is the week from January 19 to 25, during which temperatures are predicted to be significantly below normal across Maharashtra.

While there is a marginal increase expected in minimum temperatures in north-central Madhya Maharashtra, adjacent west Vidarbha, and the northern regions of Marathwada, including Pune, until January 19, the overall trend indicates a gradual decrease in minimum temperatures in Pune. However, minimums are projected to persist above the normal range until January 19.

Presently, Pune is experiencing minimum temperatures notably above normal, registering at 15-17.3°C in Shivajinagar, exceeding normal by 4-6 degrees. According to Kashyapi, there will be a gradual decline in minimum temperatures in Pune in the coming days, but they are expected to remain above the normal range until January 19.

Kashyapi advised citizens to be prepared for cooler conditions from January 19 to 25, as the minimum temperatures are projected to be partially below normal in most parts of Maharashtra, including Pune. He attributed the drop in minimum temperatures to clear skies, reduced cloud cover, and a northerly wind flow expected during the January 12-15 period.

Explaining further, Kashyapi noted, “Northerly winds, originating from the cooler regions of North India, bring colder air into Maharashtra, resulting in a cooling effect on the overall climate. Clear skies and reduced cloud cover contribute to less insulation at night, allowing efficient heat radiation from the ground into the atmosphere, leading to lower minimum temperatures.”