Over the last few weeks, Pune and its surroundings have experienced Pune and its surroundings have been experiencing intense heat over the past few weeks, which is usually associated with the peak summer months of April and May.
However, what has surprised Pune residents is that the maximum temperature of 36-38 degrees Celsius is not outside the normal range of temperature for March.
Dr Anupam Kashyapi, head of weather forecast at India Meteorological Department (IMD), agreed to this and said as temperature remains within normal range the “feel” is of much higher range of temperature. “The city has not seen much change in temperature as compared to last year’s March. But yes, the feeling is of a much higher temperature,” he said. The reason, according to Kashyapi, is the presence of moisture and lack of wind circulation.
Moisture from the Arabian Sea has entered Maharashtra due to an anticyclone, causing lighter clouds or no clouds at all. Although it won’t trigger any rains, it has made Pune and its surrounding regions hotter than usual, said Kashyapi.
Karnataka and northern India are experiencing rains and pleasant weather respectively. In most parts of Maharashtra, the temperature ranges between 37-38 degrees Celsius, while Malegaon and Jalgaon have reported 40 degrees Celsius. Last March was less humid, resulting in lower heat compared to this year.
The IMD has ruled out any immediate relief in terms of rains in the area.