Pune Experiences Sweltering Heat and High Humidity

Pune, 13th April 2024: Puneites endured sweltering conditions on Friday as high humidity combined with soaring temperatures left many feeling uncomfortable. With maximum temperatures ranging between 38.6°C and 40.6°C, the real-feel was even hotter due to elevated moisture levels in the air. Despite similar temperatures in Delhi, the national capital felt less uncomfortable, attributed to differences in humidity levels.

Humidity levels spiked to over 50-60% on Friday morning across several areas of the city, a significant increase from the previous day’s range of 30-40%. This surge in humidity, despite the absence of rainfall, made outdoor activities challenging for residents.

Across Pune and its surrounding regions, a notable increase in humidity was observed. In Shivajinagar, relative humidity (RH) rose from 48% on Thursday to 61% on Friday, accompanied by a marginal increase in minimum temperature. Similarly, Pashan recorded a 12% jump in RH from 56% to 68%, with a slight increase in minimum temperature.

The most significant change was noted in Lohegaon, where RH surged from 26% to 56%, resulting in a more uncomfortable atmosphere. Chinchwad also experienced a notable increase in humidity, while Lavale saw a surge of 19%, indicative of the buildup of mugginess.

In Magarpatta, RH sharply escalated from 31% to 57% on Friday, with minimum temperatures fluctuating marginally across different locations. Overall, these weather patterns signaled the onset of increased humidity ahead of potential rainfall activity in Pune.

Medha Khole, head of the weather forecasting division at the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Pune, attributed the discomfort to a rise in humidity levels caused by moisture incursion from the Arabian Sea. Additionally, increased cloudiness during the afternoon prevented outgoing radiation from escaping, resulting in higher night temperatures.