Pune: A sudden spell of heavy rain accompanied by hailstorms and strong winds disrupted normal life in Pune on Monday afternoon, leaving several areas waterlogged and causing significant traffic congestion across the city.
The intense showers caught many residents off guard, particularly during peak commuting hours, as flooded roads slowed down traffic and created difficulties for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Several Areas Witness Severe Impact
Neighbourhoods including Aundh, Baner, Mhalunge and Balewadi experienced the worst impact of the sudden weather shift. Heavy rainfall combined with gusty winds reduced visibility and disrupted movement across several major roads.
Waterlogging in low-lying pockets further worsened traffic conditions, leading to long vehicle queues and delays in several parts of the city.
Meanwhile, videos circulating on social media appeared to show parts of Pune covered with hail, creating winter-like scenes rarely seen in the region during this time of the year.
IMD Forecasts Continued Thunderstorm Activity
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that light rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds may continue in the city.
Authorities have issued a Yellow Alert for Pune until April 2, warning residents about possible thunderstorms and sudden changes in weather conditions.
What Is Causing the Sudden Weather Change?
Meteorologists attribute the sudden shift in weather to changing atmospheric conditions over western India.
Experts say that moisture incursion from the Arabian Sea, combined with instability in the lower atmosphere, has created favourable conditions for thunderstorms and hail activity.
Such weather patterns are commonly observed during the pre-monsoon season, when rising temperatures and moisture contrasts in the atmosphere lead to convective storm systems.
Pune’s Weather Outlook for the Coming Week
Weather conditions in Pune are expected to remain mixed and somewhat unpredictable throughout the week, with a combination of cloudy skies, rising heat and intermittent thunderstorms.
March 31 (Tuesday):
The day is likely to start with partly cloudy skies, but cloud cover is expected to increase later in the afternoon. Light rain along with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds may occur. Wind speeds could range between 20–30 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 40 kmph during the evening.
April 1–2 (Wednesday–Thursday):
Weather conditions may stabilise slightly with partly cloudy skies, though isolated thunderstorms cannot be ruled out, particularly toward the end of April 2 as humidity levels rise.
April 3–4 (Friday–Saturday):
These days could witness more active thunderstorm activity, with rainfall likely during the afternoon and evening hours.
April 5–6 (Sunday–Monday):
Rainfall intensity is expected to reduce, though cloudy skies may persist, helping keep daytime temperatures relatively moderate.
Temperature Forecast
Daytime temperatures in Pune are expected to remain between 31°C and 36°C, while night temperatures may stay relatively cooler, ranging from 17°C to 21°C.
Despite the fluctuating weather, authorities have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorms and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain or strong winds.
