Pune: Punekars are reeling under the intense wave of ‘October Heat,’ with the afternoon sun blazing fiercely, particularly between 1 PM and 4 PM. The rising heat has forced many residents to seek relief by consuming refreshing beverages like sherbet, buttermilk, and ice cream.

Adding to the concern, the Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for Pune starting Saturday, which will be in place for four days.

The city's weather conditions have become notably harsh due to a drop in air pressure, which has slowed down wind speeds, creating an oppressive, stagnant atmosphere.

Coupled with low humidity, the resulting dry weather has amplified the discomfort, with the afternoons becoming particularly unbearable.

Friday saw relentless heat, leaving Punekars scrambling for protective gear like hats, umbrellas, and scarves to shield themselves from the intense sun.

Temperatures Hover Around 33°C, But Feels Hotter

While the official temperature recorded in the city is 33°C, residents are feeling as though it’s closer to 40°C.

Meteorologists attribute this to the combined heat effect caused by concrete roads and glass buildings, which absorb and radiate heat back into the atmosphere.

This phenomenon, known as the "urban heat island effect," is exacerbating the overall temperature, making the heat more intense than the thermometer suggests.

Dr. Ramchandra Sable, a senior meteorologist, explained that the drop in air pressure has altered wind patterns, leading to increased solar radiation.

"The combined heat content is being felt more intensely, not just in Pune but across the entire state. The effects of this October heat are likely to persist until November.

However, once the winter chill sets in by December, the scorching heat will become more bearable," he noted.