Pune: Weather conditions suddenly changed last week. Temperatures have started rising and Puneites are feeling the ‘October heat’ in the middle of September. 

The maximum and minimum temperature rose by two degrees Celsius in the past couple of days. Afternoons have become humid. Citizens are reeling under hot weather conditions. They are sweating if they step out of their homes in the afternoon. This has triggered viral infections with symptoms such as fever, cold and cough.

Usually, it rains in September. However, a dry spell started last week in Pune. A moderate to light rainfall was reported in the beginning of September. Later, rains disappeared. Temperatures dip during this month but they suddenly rose last week. People faced extreme weather conditions, which gave rise to infections.

The number of patients visiting government and private hospitals have increased. El Nino is currently active, which is showing its effect. Rising temperatures in Pacific Ocean changed the direction of winds towards it. Therefore, it is not raining in India. For a rainfall to happen, winds must flow from the sea to the land.

Senior Meteorologist Anupam Kashyapi said, “There is no possibility of rain from this week onwards. Light to moderate retreating monsoon showers may take place in the evening. But they will not be heavy. Thunderstorms may occur. La Nino has been active since August, which will continue in the winter.”

The IMD has predicted that rainfall may increase in central India for 10-12 days from September 26. Central Maharashtra may receive rainfall.

Minimum and maximum temperatures (degrees Celsius)
September 16 – 18.7 / 28
September 17 – 19.3 / 28
September 18 – 18.8 / 31
September 19 – 20.3 / 30.5
September 20 – 20.1 / 31