PUNE: Clouds blanketed the skies over Pune on Monday, providing a reprieve from the scorching heat that had gripped the city in recent days. The influence of cyclone Remal over the Bay of Bengal contributed to this meteorological shift, resulting in a significant drop in maximum temperatures to 29.9°C — the lowest recorded this season.
Residents of Pune welcomed the relief brought by the cloud cover, as maximum temperatures plummeted to nearly 29-30°C across most areas of the city. This marked a stark contrast to the sweltering conditions experienced just days earlier, with temperatures surpassing 40°C. However, despite the cooler temperatures, heightened humidity levels persisted, reaching an uncomfortable range of 75-80%. According to officials from the weather forecasting division at IMD Pune, the change in weather patterns can be attributed to the cloud bands associated with the severe cyclone over the Bay of Bengal. These cloud bands not only shielded Pune from the harsh sun but also increased moisture levels in the westerly winds, leading to elevated humidity levels.
While the cloud cover offered temporary relief, Puneites continued to grapple with discomfort due to the oppressive humidity. IMD officials have indicated the possibility of light rain in the upcoming days, further adding to the dynamic weather conditions. Discussing the broader meteorological context, officials highlighted the influence of cyclone Remal in pulling westerly winds from the Arabian Sea towards Maharashtra. This ‘distant effect’ of the cyclone contributed to the strengthening of winds and the increase in moisture content, shaping Pune’s recent weather patterns. As cyclone Remal weakened into a cyclonic storm after making landfall, its impact reverberated across West Bengal, particularly affecting areas like South and North 24 Parganas. Kolkata, the capital city, experienced disruptions on Monday morning, underscoring the far-reaching consequences of meteorological phenomena.
In anticipation of the monsoon’s onset over Kerala in the coming days, IMD officials anticipate heightened pre-monsoon rain activity across peninsular India, including Maharashtra. This transition heralds a dynamic period for Pune’s weather landscape, marked by a delicate interplay of atmospheric conditions influenced by both local and distant weather systems.
