After days of relentless downpours, Pune is set to experience some respite as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has downgraded the city’s weather alert from orange to yellow. This shift indicates a likely reduction in rain intensity and fewer weather-related disruptions.
According to the latest IMD update, Pune is expected to receive light to moderate showers over the next few days. However, isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall may still occur in parts of the Western Ghats. From May 30 onward, the forecast predicts only light rainfall in the city, marking a notable dip in overall precipitation.
Despite the revised alert, Tuesday continued to see persistent rain, with brief but heavy spells affecting normal routines. IMD’s Chinchwad station recorded the highest rainfall at 76 mm in the 36-hour period ending at 8:30 pm on Tuesday. Other prominent readings included 69.6 mm in Lohegaon, 68.5 mm in Pashan, 65 mm at NDA, and 57.8 mm in Shivajinagar. Comparatively lower rainfall was noted in Magarpatta (32.5 mm) and Koregaon Park (11.5 mm).
Across Pune district, substantial rainfall was reported in several regions. Kurvande logged 81.5 mm, Girivan recorded 69 mm, and Dhamdhere saw 60 mm. Wadgaon Maval stood out with 100 mm of rainfall, crossing the triple-digit mark for this cycle.
Even with the expected dip in rainfall, the IMD has urged residents to exercise caution. Waterlogging remains a concern in low-lying zones, and road conditions could stay slippery, potentially leading to traffic delays. Visibility may be hampered during bouts of rain.
In hilly terrains and ghat sections, there’s a risk of minor landslides or mudslides due to saturated soil and loosened rocks. The IMD has advised residents to avoid taking shelter under trees during thunderstorms and to stay indoors during lightning activity. It also recommends unplugging electronic devices and refraining from using mobile phones during such events to prevent electric shocks.
Strong winds may accompany the rains, posing risks such as falling branches or debris. The IMD advises securing windows and doors, and avoiding outdoor travel during high winds or thunderstorms. Motorists are encouraged to drive with caution, considering the possibility of poor visibility and wet roads.
Anupam Kashyapi, Head of the Weather Forecasting Division at IMD Pune, told, “Rainfall intensity is expected to decline across Maharashtra from tomorrow, especially in Madhya Maharashtra regions like Pune and Marathwada. Only scattered, light showers are expected. A yellow alert may remain in place in the ghat regions. A significant drop in rainfall is expected state-wide from May 30 and may persist for the next 6 to 7 days. Citizens are advised to plan accordingly.”
As Pune enters a phase of reduced monsoon activity, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant while enjoying the brief reprieve from the recent torrential weather.
