Maharashtra Braces for Intense Heatwave as IMD Issues Critical Warning for March
Mumbai, March 8: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded the alarm for Maharashtra, warning residents of a severe heatwave expected to sweep across the state this March. Following an unusually scorching February, where Pune shattered a 125-year-old temperature record, the IMD predicts a further spike in both maximum and minimum temperatures, raising concerns about health risks and climate change impacts.
Rising Temperatures Break Records
The state has already been grappling with soaring temperatures, exacerbated by an anticyclonic weather phenomenon that has blocked cold northern winds, intensifying the heat. In February, Pune recorded a staggering 39°C, the highest in over a century. Other cities like Solapur and Ratnagiri weren’t far behind, with temperatures touching 38°C, while Sangli, Satara, Osmanabad, and Akola registered 37°C.
Major cities across Maharashtra are experiencing unprecedented heat. Mumbai recorded a maximum of 35.3°C, while Nagpur and Nashik saw highs of 34.2°C and 36.6°C, respectively. Kolhapur, Solapur, and Ratnagiri also reported temperatures well above normal, with many districts witnessing an average rise of 2.6°C compared to typical levels.
7Mar:📌पुढील ५ दिवस कोकणात साधारण उष्ण,दमट हवामान
— K S Hosalikar (@Hosalikar_KS) March 7, 2025
📌९ मार्च पासून,लाल रंगाच्या चौकटीप्रमाणे कोकणात उष्णतेच्या लाटेची शक्यता
📌११ ता,मध्य महाराष्ट्रातही
📌कोकणात उष्णतेची लाट म्हणजे;दिवसाचे कमाल तापमान ३७°¢ पेक्षा जास्त व ते त्या दिवसाच्या सरासरीपेक्षा किमान ४.५°¢ जास्त असेल
TC pl pic.twitter.com/TMvMYNwpgX
Health Risks and Climate Change Concerns
The rising temperatures are not just a matter of discomfort but also a significant health hazard. Experts warn of increased risks of heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. Health authorities are urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure, and take necessary precautions to safeguard against the extreme heat.
This alarming trend is part of a larger global pattern linked to climate change. Despite advancements in scientific understanding, controlling the escalating temperatures remains a daunting challenge. The situation in Maharashtra underscores the urgent need for effective climate action and adaptation strategies to mitigate the impacts of rising heat.
As March progresses, the IMD’s warning serves as a stark reminder of the growing threat posed by climate change. With temperatures continuing to climb, Maharashtra residents must remain vigilant and prepared for what could be one of the hottest months in recent history.
