Heavy Rain Alert for Pune: IMD Warns of Intense Showers, Thunderstorms

Pune, 19th May 2025: Pune is set to witness a bout of heavy rainfall from May 20, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for the city and surrounding district. The alert comes amid increasingly active pre-monsoon conditions sweeping across Maharashtra.
The IMD has also flagged alerts for other regions including Konkan, Central Maharashtra, and Marathwada, forecasting thunderstorms with lightning, gusty winds (30–40 kmph), and heavy showers over the next four days. For Pune, Tuesday is expected to bring the heaviest rain, with significant weather activity predicted throughout the day.
“People are advised to avoid non-essential travel, especially during peak rainfall hours. Commuters should stay alert for waterlogging, reduced visibility, and potential traffic snarls,” an IMD official said.
Rising Pre-Monsoon Activity
The rainfall marks a significant uptick in pre-monsoon activity across Maharashtra. According to the IMD, the current weather pattern is setting the stage for the arrival of the southwest monsoon, which typically hits the region in early June. With increasing cloud cover and convective activity already observed, the transition appears to be underway.
The IMD has urged citizens to stay informed via official weather advisories and take precautions, particularly those living in flood-prone or low-lying areas.
Pune’s Rainfall So Far
As of 5:30 pm on May 19, the following rainfall measurements were recorded in Pune district:
Malin: 30.5 mm
Lavasa: 13.5 mm
Ballalwadi: 11.0 mm
Wadgaonsheri: 4.0 mm
Girivan: 3.0 mm
Talegaon: 2.5 mm
NDA (National Defence Academy): 1.5 mm
Kurvande: 1.0 mm
Daund: 0.5 mm
Purandar: 0.5 mm
These scattered pre-monsoon showers are expected to intensify beginning May 20.
Pune Weather Forecast (20–25 May 2025)
20 May: Generally cloudy sky. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds (30–40 kmph). Heavy rain very likely.
21 May: Cloudy afternoon/evening. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds (30–40 kmph). Light to moderate rain.
22 May: Cloudy afternoon/evening. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds (30–40 kmph). Light to moderate rain.
23 May: Cloudy afternoon/evening. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds (30–40 kmph). Light to moderate rain.
24 May: Cloudy afternoon/evening. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds (30–40 kmph). Light to moderate rain.
25 May: Cloudy afternoon/evening. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds (30–40 kmph). Light to moderate rain.
As the city braces for the first significant rain of the season, authorities are monitoring the situation closely. Citizens are urged to remain cautious and follow updates from the IMD and local disaster management teams.