Pune Heatwave: Temperatures to Hit 42°C Despite Forecast of Evening Thunderstorms
PUNE – Residents of Pune are bracing for a grueling week ahead as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts a surge in mercury levels, with some neighborhoods expected to hit a scorching 42°C. While the forecast includes a chance of evening thunderstorms and lightning, meteorologists warn that these brief spells will offer little reprieve from the intense daytime heat.
Scorching Spots: Lohegaon and Koregaon Park at Peak Risk
According to the latest IMD data, Lohegaon and Koregaon Park are slated to be the city’s hotspots. Maximum temperatures are expected to hover around 41°C through the weekend before potentially climbing to 42°C by April 27.
Other key areas are not far behind:
- Shivajinagar, Pashan, and Magarpatta: Expected to record 40°C on Sunday, rising to 41°C on April 27.
- Chinchwad: Currently steady at 39°C, but anticipated to see a marginal rise in the coming days.
Climate Research & Services, IMD Pune@ClimateImd pic.twitter.com/xGQnpQpDY6
— Climate Research & Services, IMD Pune (@ClimateImd) April 25, 2026
No Relief at Night
The discomfort is being compounded by “warm nights,” where minimum temperatures remain high, preventing the body from recovering from daytime heat exposure. Early morning recordings showed Chinchwad, Hadapsar, and Dapodi crossing the 26°C mark, while even greener zones like Pashan remained elevated at 23.3°C.
The Paradox of Thunderstorms and Rain
The IMD has issued a forecast for “Thunderstorms with rain” accompanied by lightning for the next four days (April 25–28). However, historical data from earlier this week suggests these are “dry” or light convective developments that fail to cool the lower atmosphere significantly.
By April 29, the skies are expected to clear completely, which may lead to even more sustained heating as the city moves into May.
Regional Outlook: Heatwave in Vidarbha
24/4: विदर्भ: कमाल, किमान pic.twitter.com/O1mwjhdaFm
— K S Hosalikar (@Hosalikar_KS) April 24, 2026
While the yellow alert for thunderstorms in Madhya Maharashtra is expected to subside by Sunday, the Vidarbha region remains under a heatwave watch. Akola recently recorded the state’s highest temperature at a blistering 45°C.
Health Advisory
Health experts and local authorities urge residents to:
- Hydrate constantly, even if not feeling thirsty.
- Avoid outdoor activities between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored cotton clothing to assist in body cooling.
- Monitor vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and outdoor laborers.
Data based on IMD releases. Refer to the IMD publications and handles for more accurate weather related information.
