Pune Records Hottest Day of 2026 as Temperatures Soar Post-Holi
Pune witnessed a dramatic temperature surge on Tuesday, marking the hottest day of 2026 so far. Both night and day temperatures climbed sharply across the city, creating uncomfortable conditions for residents. The intense heat coincided with deteriorating air quality, which was exacerbated by Holika Dahan bonfires, according to data from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology's Air Quality Early Warning and Decision Support System.
Record-Breaking Temperatures Across Pune
According to the India Meteorological Department, Shivajinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 35.5°C, which was 1.3 degrees above normal and the highest reading at that location since January 1, 2026. Lohegaon experienced even more extreme conditions, reaching 36.4°C—2.2 degrees above normal—and crossing the 36°C threshold significantly earlier than usual.
For context, on March 3 last year, Lohegaon recorded 39.6°C, marking the first hottest day of that year. Shivajinagar also achieved a new seasonal high of 37.7°C on the same date in the previous year, indicating that this warming pattern is becoming increasingly common.
Weather Forecast and Expert Analysis
The IMD has forecast that maximum temperatures could climb to 37°C in Shivajinagar and 38°C in Lohegaon by March 6. A weather expert had previously indicated that significant warming would begin after the Holi festival, stating: "Maximum temperatures will go beyond 35°C and may reach 36-37°C during the week. Minimum temperatures will also rise to around 16-17°C."
The expert explained that with the onset of summer in March, the development of an anticyclonic circulation is bringing dry and warm north-easterly winds that will continue to push temperatures upward throughout the region.
Statewide Heatwave Conditions
Along with Pune, multiple regions across Maharashtra experienced above-normal heat on Tuesday. In Vidarbha, Akola recorded a scorching 38.6°C—the highest maximum temperature in the entire state. Other notable readings included:
- Chandrapur at 37.5°C
- Brahmapuri at 37.2°C
- Wardha at 38.5°C
In Marathwada, Parbhani touched 37°C, while several stations in Madhya Maharashtra remained significantly above normal temperature levels.
Official IMD Projections
An IMD official stated that Maharashtra will experience a gradual rise in maximum temperatures by 2-3°C over the next four days, with no major changes anticipated thereafter. Minimum temperatures are also expected to increase gradually by 2-3°C over southern parts of Maharashtra during the same period.
The lowest minimum temperature recorded in the state was 15.2°C at Malegaon. Minimum temperatures showed an upward trend across multiple areas, signaling the beginning of a sustained warming phase that could persist for weeks.
Specifically for Vidarbha, maximum temperatures are likely to increase by approximately 2°C over the next three days, with no significant change expected afterward. Minimum temperatures in that region are projected to remain relatively stable over the next seven days.
The combination of rising temperatures and deteriorating air quality creates significant health concerns for residents, particularly vulnerable populations including children, elderly individuals, and those with respiratory conditions. Authorities recommend staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and monitoring air quality alerts regularly.
