Heavy Rains, Thunderstorms Forecast for Pune and Surrounding Regions Until May 24
Heavy Rains, Thunderstorms Forecast for Pune and Surrounding Regions Until May 24
IMD issues alert for intense pre-monsoon activity; Pune records one of the wettest Mays in recent memory
PUNE – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued light to moderate rainfall across Pune over the next four days, with increased thunderstorm activity likely due to an approaching cyclonic circulation over the Arabian Sea.
According to the IMD’s latest bulletin, widespread thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, gusty winds, and heavy rainfall are expected in various parts of Maharashtra until May 24, with the most severe impact projected between May 21 and 24.
Cyclonic Activity Likely to Intensify
The Regional Meteorological Centre in Mumbai reported on Tuesday that a low-pressure area is expected to form over the east-central Arabian Sea, off the Karnataka coast, around May 22. This system is expected to move northwards and could intensify further, triggering a wave of rainfall activity across western and central Maharashtra.
Meteorologist, confirmed that the rains over the state are linked to cyclonic circulation and strong westerly winds, which are currently drawing significant moisture from the sea. “Though the monsoon has not officially arrived, it is advancing early this year, and these pre-monsoon thundershowers are a typical precursor,” they added.
Heavy Showers Lash Pune; Social Media Flooded with Storm Videos
On Tuesday, Pune witnessed heavy showers, marking one of the wettest Mays in recent history. Many parts of the city saw intense downpours, along with thunder and lightning, causing localized waterlogging and minor traffic disruptions.
Residents took to social media platform X to post visuals of the stormy skies and flooding, highlighting the scale of weather activity currently affecting the city.
Forecast for Maharashtra: Region-Wide Impact Expected
While the Konkan coast has been placed under severe weather warnings, interior districts are also likely to be impacted. The Madhya Maharashtra region including Pune, Satara, Kolhapur, Nashik, and Jalgaon has been marked for moderate to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms with winds reaching 40-60 kmph.
The IMD has specifically cautioned that south Madhya Maharashtra may see very heavy rainfall between May 19 and 23, with peak intensity forecast for May 21 and 22.
Pre-Monsoon Onset Brings Relief and Risks
The ongoing rainfall has provided temporary relief from heat, but has also triggered infrastructure challenges, including flooded roads and delays in power restoration in multiple localities. The IMD has advised residents to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid waterlogged areas, and monitor official updates.
