A sudden drop in temperatures has gripped Maharashtra, marking an early onset of winter across its major districts. Pune recorded a low of 13.5°C—colder than Mahabaleshwar’s 19.6°C—on Sunday, catching residents off guard and disrupting daily routines. Meteorologists attribute the temperature fall to clear skies, reduced humidity, and the inflow of cold northern air.
According to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), parts of Pune district such as Malin, Talegaon, and Kurvande reported minimum temperatures between 11°C and 12°C, while Ambegaon and Baramati hovered just above 12°C. In contrast, Mumbai and Ratnagiri remained relatively warmer at around 19°C, reflecting the coastal moderation typical of the Konkan region. The cooling trend extended to northern and central Maharashtra, where Dhule recorded the lowest temperature in the state at 8.6°C. Cities like Jalgaon, Parbhani, and Aurangabad also saw temperatures dip to the low double digits. Officials from the IMD noted that this temperature gradient—colder inland and milder along the coast—is likely to persist for at least a week.
Experts highlight that this year’s early winter pattern aligns with broader climatic shifts across western India. “Rapid radiation cooling due to clear skies and a steady flow of dry air from the north have triggered this temperature drop,” said a senior IMD scientist. The official added that such temperature swings could influence agricultural patterns and urban air quality, particularly in industrial zones such as Pune and Nashik, where cooler, stagnant air often traps pollutants closer to the surface. The IMD has forecast dry weather across most of Maharashtra for the coming five days, with minimum temperatures expected to fall further, especially in interior districts. Urban planners suggest that the cooler conditions may also help reduce energy demand for air conditioning—offering a short-term environmental benefit for cities grappling with high carbon footprints.
However, health experts advise citizens to remain cautious as sudden temperature changes can lead to respiratory illnesses, particularly among children and the elderly. City administrations, including those in Pune and Nashik, are preparing advisories for early morning commuters and outdoor workers. As Maharashtra transitions into a firm winter phase, the state’s weather pattern underlines the growing need for urban climate resilience—where city infrastructure, housing design, and public health systems adapt more effectively to shifting weather extremes driven by larger environmental forces.
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