Pune Plunges into Winter: Single-Digit Temps and Choking Fog Grip Maharashtra
Image Source: Internet
A biting cold wave swept through Pune on Tuesday, with the city's minimum temperature plummeting to 9.4°C, marking the first single-digit reading of the season. The India Meteorological Department's Shivajinagar observatory recorded this low, while six other stations in the district reported temperatures between 6°C and 9°C. This sharp dip was attributed to persistent northerly winds that have dominated Maharashtra's weather for over a week. As residents woke up to the biting cold, dense morning fog, and a noticeable wind chill, winter-like conditions arrived earlier than expected. The cold spell was accompanied by deteriorating air quality, with Pune's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) standing at 159 (moderate). However, several locations, including Shivajinagar and Wakad, slipped into the poor category. According to meteorological data, Pune's minimum temperature has been steadily falling since November 6. The IMD attributed the drop to clear skies and strong north-northwesterly winds that enhance nighttime radiational heat loss. Despite the decline, IMD officials do not expect further significant cooling in the coming days. Residents can expect continued chilly mornings and deteriorating air quality, particularly along major traffic corridors. While temperatures may stabilise in the coming days, the cold wave and poor air quality are set to persist in Pune and other parts of Maharashtra.
