Pune Weather Update: IMD Warns of Heatwave, Advises Caution
Pune, 11th March 2025: Maharashtra is experiencing a sharp rise in heat stress levels, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reporting prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures in several regions. The Excess Heat Factor (EHF) index, which tracks sustained and intense heat conditions, has indicated a worsening trend, raising concerns about public health risks.
An IMD official stated, “Our analysis shows that central and western India, including Maharashtra, are witnessing a rising EHF trend. This suggests that heat stress conditions will continue to intensify in the coming days.”
The accumulated EHF over the past 12 days has revealed persistent heat exposure, particularly along the Maharashtra coast. As a result, temperatures across the state have been rising significantly.
Several Parts of Maharashtra Record Temperatures Above 40°C
As per IMD’s automatic weather station (AWS) data, several locations crossed the 40°C mark by early Monday afternoon, with peak temperatures expected around 2:30 PM. Vikhroli, Karjat, and parts of north Maharashtra recorded some of the highest temperatures, ranging between 41°C and 42°C, signaling severe heat stress.
Pune also witnessed scorching conditions, with Koregaon Park emerging as the hottest location in the city at 39.6°C. Other affected areas included Shirur (39.4°C), Talegaon (38.9°C), and Lohegaon (38.5°C), which was 4 degrees above normal. Shivajinagar recorded 36.9°C, while relative humidity levels dropped to as low as 15% to 28% in the afternoon, exacerbating heat-related discomfort.
Konkan Faces Second Heatwave, Vidarbha Braces for Rising Temperatures
With Konkan experiencing its second heatwave spell of the season, experts warn that Vidarbha may soon face similar conditions. Akola recorded Maharashtra’s highest temperature on Monday at 38.8°C, while other regions in Vidarbha, including Nagpur, Bramhapuri, and Chandrapur, saw temperatures exceeding 37.5°C.
In Marathwada, Osmanabad (36.6°C) and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (35.6°C) reported above-normal temperatures. Coastal regions also struggled with rising heat, with Mumbai (Colaba) recording 36.4°C and Santacruz reaching 37.2°C.
Heatwave Conditions to Persist
According to IMD’s forecast, clear skies and high temperatures will continue on Tuesday, with Pune expected to record a maximum of 38°C to 39°C. An IMD official cautioned, “Daytime temperatures are currently 1-5°C above normal for early March, and even night temperatures remain unusually high in many areas. The dry conditions worsen the impact, as low humidity accelerates dehydration and affects the body’s natural cooling process.”
With heat stress intensifying, residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and take necessary precautions to mitigate the health risks associated with extreme temperatures.
