Escalating heat and early drought grip Maharashtra

As temperatures soar across Maharashtra, Solapur tops the charts with a scorching 39 degrees Celsius, signalling the onset of extreme heat. Major cities like Pune, Thane, and Kolhapur are witnessing a gradual rise, hitting 37.4 degrees by midweek. Despite a slight drop from the previous day, the mercury maintains its oppressive hold throughout the morning hours, slowing down activity in bustling markets and streets.

While Marathwada, West Maharashtra, and Madhya Maharashtra bear an average maximum temperature of 36 degrees Celsius, coastal areas grapple with both heat and humidity. Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar, alongside Alibaug and Konkan, experience muggy conditions throughout the day, exacerbating discomfort.

Unexpectedly, Vidarbha encounters unseasonal rain and cloudy weather, offering temporary relief amidst rising temperatures. Nonetheless, the coast endures an average maximum temperature of 35 degrees, with Santacruz recording a blistering 38.7 degrees Celsius.

As the region battles intensifying heatwaves, water scarcity emerges as a pressing concern. By mid-March, acute shortages plague Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Bihar, Nagaland, and Marathwada in Maharashtra. The Central Water Commission’s assessment of 150 major reservoirs reveals dwindling water reserves, especially alarming in Ujani, Jayakwadi, and Koyna dam areas. This dire situation threatens agricultural production, fishing, and industrial water usage, necessitating urgent measures to conserve and manage available resources effectively before the situation worsens.