Maharashtra Experiences Below-Normal Day Temperatures, Warming Expected Soon
On Wednesday, day temperatures across various parts of Maharashtra continued to remain significantly below the normal seasonal averages, with departures ranging between 2°C and 6°C. This cooling trend was observed even as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicated a gradual warming pattern expected to unfold over the coming days.
Detailed Temperature Data Across Key Locations
Data released by the IMD revealed specific temperature readings for several cities in Maharashtra. Pune recorded a maximum temperature of 34.2°C, which was 3.2°C below the normal level. Nashik experienced a more pronounced departure, with its day temperature at 32.9°C, marking a sharp 6.8°C below normal. Other notable readings included Jalgaon at 36.4°C (3.8°C below normal), Malegaon at 35.6°C (4.1°C below normal), and Mahabaleshwar, which remained cooler at 29.1°C (2.9°C below normal). Similar below-normal trends were reported across multiple stations in the Madhya Maharashtra region.
Vidarbha Region Shows Relatively Higher Temperatures
In contrast to the cooler conditions in other areas, the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra recorded relatively higher day temperatures. Akola registered the highest maximum temperature in the state at 38.4°C, although this was still 1.8°C below the normal benchmark. Chandrapur and Brahmapuri also reported elevated day temperatures, with readings of 38°C and 38.2°C, respectively.
IMD Forecast Predicts Gradual Temperature Rise
Despite the current dip in temperatures, the IMD's local forecast suggests that a warming trend has already begun and is likely to intensify. For Pune, maximum temperatures are projected to reach around 35°C on Thursday, with forecasts indicating a steady increase to between 36°C and 38°C by April 11–14. Neighbouring areas such as Pashan, Lohegaon, and Koregaon Park are expected to follow a similar pattern, with day temperatures potentially touching up to 38°C by mid-April.
Scientific Insights from IMD Expert
IMD scientist SD Sanap provided further clarity on the expected temperature changes. He stated that both maximum and minimum temperatures are anticipated to rise by approximately 2–3°C over the next four to five days. Sanap explained, "Temperatures are expected to rise by about 1–2°C; we can also say around 2–3°C over the next four to five days. The rise will be due to clear-sky conditions, absence of moisture, and no active weather systems." He added that this warming trend is expected to be observed across most parts of Maharashtra, including Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada.
Outlook for the Coming Week
The forecast for Pune indicates mainly clear skies over the next week, suggesting that the ongoing below-normal temperature phase may soon give way to more typical summer conditions. This shift aligns with the broader meteorological predictions for the region, highlighting a transition towards warmer weather as seasonal patterns evolve.
