Pune Weather Update: Rain May Disrupt Diwali Festivities Until October 22

Pune Weather Update: Rain May Disrupt Diwali Festivities Until October 22
Pune, October 16, 2025 – Unseasonal rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in Pune and other parts of western Maharashtra between October 15 and 22, potentially affecting Diwali festivities, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned.
Forecasts indicate intermittent showers, cloudy skies, and strong winds over the coming days, which may impact outdoor celebrations, shopping, and travel plans during the festival week. Similar weather was observed earlier this month during Navaratri.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Pune, Satara, Ahmednagar, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Beed, and Sindhudurg districts. Light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms is likely, particularly coinciding with key Diwali days, including Vasubaras (October 17), Dhantrayodashi (October 18), and Narak Chaturdashi (October 20).
This unusual weather is attributed to residual moisture and atmospheric instability following the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon from Maharashtra, Goa, and Madhya Pradesh. The IMD expects the monsoon to completely retreat from India by October 18, affecting Karnataka, Telangana, and northeastern states as well.
Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorms and to avoid open spaces during lightning. Farmers have been recommended to postpone harvesting crops like soyabean and cotton to reduce potential losses due to the rainfall.