City to experience rise in day temps, cloudy skies till Feb 28: IMD - The Times of India
Pune: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts a rise in daytime temperatures in the city by 3-4 degrees until Feb 28.
Met officials stated that temperatures are expected to remain in the range of 36-37°C throughout the coming week.
On Sunday, Shivajinagar recorded a temperature of 35.7°C, while Lohegaon recorded 34.8°C — both above normal by 3.1° and 2.2°, respectively.
From Feb 25 onwards, daytime temperatures are likely to remain elevated. The city may also experience cloudy skies in evening hours starting Feb 24, according to the forecast.
A senior IMD official told TOI, "An anti-cyclonic circulation is affecting some parts of the state, including Madhya Maharashtra, which includes Pune district. This is blocking entry of northern winds into the state. Also, day temperatures in northern regions are on the rise."
He added, "The state is currently undergoing a seasonal transition, which typically causes temperature fluctuations. Consequently, temperatures increased by 3-4° over the last three weeks."
Some areas of Konkan region may experience light rainfall and overcast conditions, primarily due to the influence of western winds. However, the official noted, "The rainfall will not be significant, nor will it last for a long time."
Solapur recorded the highest daytime temperature at 37.9°C on Sunday, exceeding normal levels by 3°. Meanwhile, temperatures in Marathwada and Vidarbha regions ranged between 32°C and 37°C on Sunday, according to met officials.
Rising temperatures may impact water resources, and shortages could be experienced in several regions where the groundwater table is weak, officials said. They added that the temperature increase is beneficial for certain crops, such as onions.
A senior official from the state agriculture department said, "Several rounds of watering will be necessary to provide sufficient moisture to crops, including onions. Areas with weakened groundwater levels may face challenges. However, the need for pesticide spraying is expected to be less than usual."