Pune Records Warmest February Nights Since 2020, IMD Warns of Further 2–3°C Rise
Pune Records Warmest February Nights Since 2020, IMD Warns of Further 2–3°C Rise
High humidity and warm nights create early summer-like discomfort across the city
Pune is experiencing unusually warm February weather, with both day and night temperatures staying above normal and causing discomfort across the city. According to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data, this is the first time since 2020 that Pune’s minimum temperature has touched the 19°C mark in February.
On February 23, Shivajinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 34.5°C, while Lohegaon was hotter at 36.3°C. Night temperatures have also remained elevated. Minimum readings ranged between 17°C and 18°C in Shivajinagar, while Lohegaon touched nearly 21°C in recent days.
As per IMD observations, on Tuesday Shivajinagar recorded a day temperature of 33°C with a minimum of 15°C. Lohegaon reported 35.3°C as the maximum and 19.8°C as the minimum. Despite slight variations across stations, nighttime temperatures have largely remained above normal.
The combined effect of high maximum temperatures, elevated minimum temperatures and relatively high humidity has made conditions uncomfortable, especially during late afternoons and early evenings. Relative humidity in Pune was recorded between 63% and 75% during morning hours. Though the recorded maximum temperature was around 32–33°C on some days, the “real feel” was closer to 34°C due to humidity, light winds and strong solar radiation.
Meteorologists have attributed the weather pattern to continuous moisture supply from southeasterly winds. A trough extending from a well-marked low-pressure area to south Madhya Maharashtra, passing through central Tamil Nadu and interior Karnataka in the lower tropospheric levels, is influencing conditions across peninsular India, including Maharashtra. A trough in the upper-level westerlies has also contributed to rainfall activity in parts of Vidarbha.
The IMD has forecast mainly clear skies over Pune for the next two days, with partly cloudy conditions likely during afternoons and evenings. There may be no significant change in maximum temperatures over Maharashtra in the immediate two days. Thereafter, a gradual rise of 2–3°C is expected over the subsequent five days.
However, some relief may be seen on the night-time front. Officials have indicated that minimum temperatures could drop by 1–2°C after Wednesday as clearer skies prevail.
Even though February typically marks the transition from winter to summer, the sustained warmth this year has given Pune an early taste of summer. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure during peak afternoon hours as temperatures are expected to remain on the higher side in the coming days.
Disclaimer: Weather forecasts are subject to change based on atmospheric developments. Residents should follow official IMD updates for the latest advisories.
