PUNE: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted the arrival of the monsoon in Pune within the next three to four days. This prediction brings a sense of relief as the city anticipates a reduction in daytime temperatures and the onset of rainy weather.
IMD’s latest forecast indicates thunderous weather with intermittent rainfall in the evenings up to June 7. Daytime temperatures are expected to fluctuate between 34 and 36 degrees Celsius during this period. The Shivajinagar and Lohegaon observatories both recorded temperatures of 36.6°C on Sunday, which is 1.3°C above the normal range.
Met officials attribute the anticipated drop in daytime temperatures to pre-monsoon conditions. “Currently, the humidity level has risen in the city, resulting in uncomfortable nights. However, post-rainfall and with the fall in daytime temperatures, this scenario is expected to change,” an IMD official noted. Favourable conditions are developing for the further advancement of the southwest monsoon. A former head of the IMD’s forecast division in Pune highlighted that the situation this year is markedly different from last year. “Last year, the monsoon covered Kerala by June 8, but its subsequent progress was unimpressive, reaching Maharashtra about ten days late. This delay adversely affected the Kharif farming season in the state. This year, however, the monsoon’s progress is on the right track,” he stated.
A senior IMD official also reported an increase in moisture levels across the state, with cloud formation indicating imminent rainfall. “The monsoon will first arrive in the coastal Konkan region. According to our assessment, the monsoon will cover Maharashtra by June 6, one day ahead of schedule,” he added. The pre-monsoon activity is expected to intensify over the next two days. “There is a high probability of cloudy conditions and rainfall in Madhya Maharashtra, including Pune district, in the next two to three days,” the official mentioned.
Farmers are already preparing their fields in anticipation of the Kharif season, as confirmed by officials from the state agriculture department. “This year, seeds have been adequately distributed to farmers to ensure optimal sowing. Rainfall is crucial, especially since many districts are currently facing a water crisis,” an agriculture department official commented. The timely arrival of the monsoon is critical not only for reducing the prevailing heat and humidity but also for supporting agricultural activities in the region. With the IMD’s positive forecast, both residents and farmers in Pune and surrounding areas are hopeful for a favourable and timely monsoon season.
