Pune: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted continued light to moderate rainfall in Pune over the next four days, with thunderstorm activity expected to intensify due to a developing cyclonic circulation over the Arabian Sea.
According to the latest IMD advisory, widespread thunderstorms, lightning, strong winds, and heavy showers are anticipated across Maharashtra until May 24. The period between May 21 and 24 is likely to witness the most intense weather activity.
The Regional Meteorological Centre in Mumbai has indicated that a low-pressure system is likely to form over the east-central Arabian Sea, near the Karnataka coast, around May 22. This system is projected to move northward and could strengthen further, leading to an extended spell of rainfall in western and central parts of Maharashtra.
Meteorologists confirmed that this current spell is a result of cyclonic circulation combined with robust westerly winds drawing moisture from the Arabian Sea. Although the official monsoon declaration is still awaited, this pattern signals an early onset, with typical pre-monsoon showers already underway.
On Tuesday, Pune experienced one of its heaviest May rainfalls in recent memory. Several areas were hit by intense showers, thunder, and lightning, resulting in waterlogging and minor traffic snarls. Residents flooded social media platforms like X with videos and images showcasing the stormy weather and flooding.
The Konkan region remains under weather warnings, while the interior districts are also bracing for impact. Areas such as Pune, Satara, Kolhapur, Nashik, and Jalgaon in Madhya Maharashtra are expected to receive moderate to heavy rain accompanied by winds gusting up to 60 km/h.
The IMD has issued special alerts for southern Madhya Maharashtra, predicting very heavy rainfall from May 19 to 23, with the heaviest downpours likely on May 21 and 22.
While the rains have brought a much-needed reprieve from rising temperatures, they have also exposed vulnerabilities in urban infrastructure, with reports of waterlogging and delayed power restoration in parts of the city. Authorities have advised the public to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid flooded areas, and follow official alerts closely.
