Pune Swelters: Temperature Hits 43.3°C, Marking Hottest Day of the Year

As summer tightens its grip, Koregaon Park and Wadgaonsheri in Pune sizzle with temperatures reaching a scorching 43.3°C and 43°C, respectively, marking the highest recorded temperatures of the season so far on Sunday. Solapur, registering 43.7°C, stands as the hottest place in the state.

Heatwave-like conditions blanket western and north Maharashtra, with Marathwada experiencing temperatures ranging between 41°C and 43°C. Surprisingly, the Vidarbha region records lower temperatures compared to other areas, barring Konkan, including Mumbai and Goa.

In Pune, temperature readings from various areas reflect the searing heatwave. The India Meteorological Department’s weather station in Chinchwad logs 42.9°C, closely followed by Hadapsar (42.7°C), Magarpatta (41.9°C), Lohegaon (41.7°C), Shivajinagar (41.3°C), Lavale (41.5°C), Pashan (41°C), and NDA (40.4°C). Talegaon Dhamdhere tops the list with the district’s highest temperature at 43.4°C.

Forecast suggests persisting hot weather for the next four to five days, attributed to an anti-cyclonic circulation over the state coupled with hot northerly winds. Clear skies exacerbate the situation, intensifying soil heating.

While heatwave criteria are yet to be met, temperatures above 40°C prompt a precautionary advisory. Urban landscapes, particularly high-rise buildings, exacerbate heat retention, resulting in varying temperatures across the city.

IMD officials rule out any chance of rainfall, urging residents to reschedule outdoor activities, including sports and exercise, to cooler hours of the day. With soaring temperatures, precautions against heat-related illnesses are paramount, emphasizing hydration and avoidance of outdoor activities during peak heat hours.