Special Correspondent
Pune : Maharashtra has recorded 70 cases of heat stroke and three suspected deaths between March 1 and April 26, according to data released by the state public health department. All three fatalities were reported from Nagpur, underscoring the escalating health risks as temperatures continue to rise across the region.
Nagpur also reported eight non-fatal heat stroke cases. Other districts witnessing a surge in cases include Yavatmal (11 cases) and Buldhana (9 cases). Jalna, Gadchiroli, and Parbhani districts each reported five cases, while Dhule recorded four and Palghar three.
Smaller clusters with two cases each were reported from Kolhapur, Latur, Nanded, Nashik, Raigad, and Wardha. Isolated cases were also reported from Pune, Thane, Washim, Sangli, Osmanabad, Amravati, Aurangabad, and Chandrapur.
With temperatures soaring, authorities have issued advisories urging citizens to take necessary precautions. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) have advised residents to avoid exposure to the sun during peak hours, stay well-hydrated, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of heat-related illnesses develop.
The state health department has directed all district hospitals and primary health centres to stay on high alert and ensure prompt treatment for suspected heat stroke cases. Officials have warned that without preventive measures, the number of cases may increase further as the summer intensifies.