Maharashtra Weather Alert: IMD Issues Dual Yellow Alert for Heatwave & Unseasonal Rains
Maharashtra is bracing for a dramatic weather showdown this Sunday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a rare “double warning” for April 26, predicting severe heatwave conditions in Vidarbha while simultaneously warning of unseasonal thunderstorms and rainfall in Pune, Marathwada, and Western Maharashtra.
Residents across the state should prepare for extreme contrast, from scorching dry heat to sudden squalls and lightning. Here is the comprehensive Maharashtra Weather Update for today.
IMD Yellow Alert: A Split Weather System Across the State
The state is currently experiencing conflicting weather patterns. While dry, hot northerly winds are scorching the eastern districts, moisture incursion from the Arabian Sea is triggering instability in the western and central parts.
H2: Heatwave Conditions Grip Vidarbha
If you are in eastern Maharashtra, do not step out unless necessary. The IMD has placed Vidarbha under a Yellow Alert for a severe heatwave.
- Districts to Watch: Akola, Amravati, Wardha, and Chandrapur.
- Temperature Projections: Maximum temperatures are expected to soar between 41°C and 45°C.
- Recorded Highs: Recent observations have shown districts like Akola and Amravati touching 45.6°C, with Wardha at 45.5°C.
- Health Advisory: Officials have urged citizens to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, stay hydrated, and watch for signs of heat stroke.
H2: Western Maharashtra & Marathwada: Thunderstorm Alert
In stark contrast to the heatwave, a Yellow Alert has been issued for thunderstorms and gusty winds in the western half of the state.
H3: Pune, Satara, Sangli to Experience Squalls
The IMD has confirmed that unseasonal rain is likely to hit parts of Western Maharashtra today.
- Affected Districts: Pune, Kolhapur, Satara, Sangli, and Solapur.
- Expected Intensity: Light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms.
- Wind Speed: Gusty winds reaching 40-50 km/h are likely, which could cause damage to temporary structures or uproot weak trees.
H4: Marathwada on Alert
Central Maharashtra will not be spared either. Districts including Nanded, Latur, and Dharashiv have also been placed under a Yellow Alert for rain and lightning. Farmers have been advised to take precautions regarding harvested crops lying in open fields.
Weather in Mumbai and Konkan: Hot and Humid
While the rest of the state sees rain or extreme heat, the capital region is stuck in “sultry” weather.
- Mumbai Update: The city will remain largely dry but extremely uncomfortable. Maximum temperatures are expected around 35-36°C.
- Humidity Factor: High moisture levels will make the heat feel more oppressive than the mercury suggests. Thane, Raigad, and Ratnagiri face similar conditions.
Forecast for the Coming Days
- April 27 (Monday): The weather is expected to turn mainly dry. However, respite is on the horizon as the IMD predicts a gradual drop in maximum temperatures by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius over the next 24 hours.
- April 28 (Tuesday): Vidarbha may witness a weather flip again, with chances of thunder and lightning returning to the heat-baked region.
Safety Advisory: Citizens are advised to check weather updates before traveling and avoid driving during peak squall activity.
