Weather Update: Maharashtra Braces For Rain, ‘Yellow Alert’ Issued For 15 Districts
Weather Update: Maharashtra Braces For Rain, 'Yellow Alert' Issued For 15 Districts
In a surprise twist, the Indian Meteorological Department has predicted light to moderate rains across Maharashtra during Diwali, dampening festive spirits. A low-pressure system formed after Cyclone Dana hit Odisha’s coast is moving westward, bringing moisture-laden air into the state.
This has led to a ‘yellow alert’ being issued for 15 districts, including Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Ahilyanagar, Pune, Raigad, Satara, Sindhudurg, Jalna, Parbhani, Hingoli, Gadchiroli, Gondia, and Bhandara, on October 29 and 30. Yavatmal, Chandrapur, and Wardha districts are also under ‘yellow alert’ on October 31.
“Rain is likely from Monday, October 28, with cloudy skies and chances of lightning,” said a weather expert. “The vapor in the air, decreased earlier, is now moving westward due to Cyclone Dana, leading to a possibility of rain during Diwali days.”
The rain prediction comes after a brief dry spell, which followed scattered rains across the state in early October. The withdrawal of monsoon winds had led to a decrease in rainfall, but the low-pressure areas over the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal kept the showers going.
Residents are advised to check weather forecasts before outdoor plans, take necessary precautions during rain, minimize fireworks usage to reduce pollution, and monitor air quality indexes. With the dry weather, dust levels have increased, potentially deteriorating air quality. The upcoming Diwali fireworks displays are likely to exacerbate pollution, further compromising air quality.
