After experiencing coolest first half of April in a decade, Pune has been witnessing intense heat over the past week, with the maximum temperature reaching 41.8°C on Sunday (April 26), the highest recorded in April since 2019.
The mercury has remained above 40°C for five consecutive days, highlighting a sharp rise in temperatures towards the end of April.
According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), a combination of weather systems across the country is influencing current conditions. Western disturbances in North India, cyclonic circulations over parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bangladesh, and Assam, along with an active east-west trough, are shaping the broader weather pattern.
Anti-cyclonic conditions over central Maharashtra have further reduced wind flow, trapping heat and increasing humidity.
Despite temperatures crossing 40°C, Pune does not meet the technical criteria for a heatwave. However, the rise in minimum temperatures, now between 21°C and 24.7°C, along with limited air movement has made conditions uncomfortable, especially at night.
Experts attribute part of the heat rise to rapid urbanization and concretization, as buildings and roads absorb heat during the day and release it later. IMD scientist Dr. S. D. Sanap said that while the heat remains intense, temperatures are likely to drop by 2–3°C over the next three to four days.
The impact has been stronger in suburban areas. Koregaon Park and Lohegaon recorded up to 43°C on Monday, while Shivajinagar, Pashan, and Magarpatta saw around 41°C. A slight dip is expected soon, with Tuesday’s forecast indicating a maximum of 41°C and a minimum of 24°C.
