Pune: City recorded a maximum temperature of 36°C on Friday, prompting the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and state health authorities to step up surveillance to prevent health complications caused by extreme heat. Fortunately, no severe cases of heatstroke have been reported in Pune or surrounding areas so far.
According to data from the Maharashtra Health Department, a total of 23 heatstroke cases have been recorded across the state this March. Among the affected districts, Gadchiroli has reported four cases, while Buldhana and Nagpur have recorded three cases each. Latur, Palghar, and Parbhani have each reported two cases, and Nanded, Nashik, Osmanabad, Raigad, Sangli, Thane, and Wardha have recorded one case each. So far, no fatalities have been reported.
Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to high temperatures, often exceeding 40°C in several regions, can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and, in severe cases, heatstroke. Government records indicate that 347 heatstroke cases and one death were reported in 2024, whereas 2023 witnessed 3,191 cases and 14 deaths due to extreme heat. To mitigate risks, 2,746 cold rooms have been set up across Maharashtra, with 220 in Pune, distributed among 101 primary health centres, 19 rural hospitals, 94 urban health centres, and one district hospital. Additionally, a heat advisory has been issued, and medical personnel have undergone special training for heatstroke management.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), temperatures are expected to remain between 36°C and 40°C until the end of March. However, relief is expected as thunderstorms are predicted in parts of south-central Maharashtra after March 31. The seven-day forecast for Pune indicates that temperatures will reach 38°C on Saturday, 40°C on Sunday, 36°C on Monday, 38°C on Tuesday, 36°C on Wednesday, and 36°C on Thursday. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, take necessary precautions, and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to minimize health risks.
