Pune, 2nd October 2026: Punekars are experiencing intense heat at the beginning of October, with maximum temperatures rising to 33–34°C over the past few days. The combination of intense sunlight and high humidity has made conditions uncomfortable across the city.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that maximum temperatures in Pune could remain 1–2°C above the seasonal average throughout October.
The city has witnessed partly cloudy skies in the morning, followed by strong sunshine in the afternoon. As monsoon clouds gradually clear and sunlight increases, daytime temperatures have started rising. Pune's average maximum temperature in October is generally around 30–32°C. However, this month, the mercury is expected to remain around 33–34°C, according to the IMD.
Pune recorded a total of 736.2 mm of rainfall between June and September 2026. However, rainfall distribution was highly uneven, with a significant share of the seasonal rainfall concentrated in July.
June: 64 mm
July: 523.6 mm
August: 84.5 mm
September: 64.1 mm
Heavy rainfall between July 3 and 9 accounted for a major share of the season's total. While June began with a rainfall deficit, intense showers in the first week of July helped make up for the shortfall. Rainfall declined considerably in August and September, with long dry spells between rainy periods.
Shivajinagar recorded just 64.1 mm of rainfall in September, the lowest September rainfall since 2018. The figures highlight the uneven distribution of monsoon rainfall in Pune this year, with intense showers concentrated within a few days, followed by extended periods of limited rainfall.
Fluctuating temperatures and high humidity have also raised concerns about seasonal illnesses in Pune. Doctors have reported an increase in cases of dengue, chikungunya and viral fever amid changing weather conditions. Sudden changes in temperature can put additional stress on the body's temperature-regulation system.
Health experts have advised residents, particularly senior citizens, children and people with diabetes or high blood pressure, to take extra precautions during this period.
Residents have been advised to drink sufficient water, use clean drinking water and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Doctors have also recommended using masks and scarves when going outdoors and seeking medical advice if symptoms persist.
Dr S. D. Sanap, Scientist at the India Meteorological Department in Pune, said clear skies and high humidity were contributing to the rise in temperatures.
"Clear skies until the afternoon allow direct sunlight to reach the ground, causing temperatures to rise rapidly. High humidity further intensifies the discomfort. With the monsoon entering its withdrawal phase, changes in weather conditions are expected. This October, maximum temperatures are likely to remain 1–2°C above the seasonal average," Sanap said.
Dr Bharat Kadam, Executive Member of the Pune Doctors Association, said fluctuations in weather could affect the body's ability to regulate its temperature and potentially put additional stress on the immune system.
"Fluctuations in weather conditions can make it difficult for the body to regulate its temperature and may affect immunity. Favourable conditions for the spread of infections have contributed to an increase in cases of dengue, chikungunya, viral fever and joint pain. Senior citizens, children and people with diabetes or high blood pressure should take extra precautions. Residents should drink boiled water and use masks and scarves when stepping outdoors," Kadam said.
