Pune: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Pune, warning residents of potential thunderstorms, strong winds, and moderate to heavy rainfall over the next couple of days. The alert is part of a broader warning issued for the Konkan region, Goa, Gujarat, and interior parts of Maharashtra, where intense weather conditions are expected to persist through May 25.
A developing weather system over the east-central Arabian Sea is gaining strength, prompting the IMD to forecast increased rainfall activity across the western coast and adjoining inland areas. Currently, an upper air cyclonic circulation lies off the coasts of north Karnataka and Goa. This system is anticipated to evolve into a low-pressure area by Thursday and may intensify into a depression by Friday as it moves northward.
Between May 21 and 25, regions including Konkan, Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, and Marathwada are likely to experience widespread light to moderate showers, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and wind speeds ranging from 40 to 50 kmph.
The most intense weather is forecast between May 21 and 23, particularly over Konkan, Goa, Gujarat, and Madhya Maharashtra. During this period, thundersqualls may reach wind speeds of 50 to 60 kmph, with gusts potentially touching 70 kmph in some areas.
In Pune, the orange alert indicates a heightened risk of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching 40 to 50 kmph. The IMD has also warned of moderate to heavy rainfall in the city during this time.
Additionally, the ghat regions of Pune, Kolhapur, and Satara are expected to face particularly severe weather, including heavy to very heavy rainfall, intense thunderstorms, lightning, and localized wind gusts of up to 60 kmph. Authorities and residents are urged to stay alert and take necessary precautions.
