Parts of Maharashtra witnessed intense rainfall and hailstorms on Monday, bringing sudden relief from rising temperatures but also disrupting daily life in cities, including Pune.
The abrupt change in weather is being attributed to evolving atmospheric conditions and moisture inflow over western India.
According to meteorological assessments, cloudy skies have developed over Pune and the Western Ghats, with isolated rainfall activity expected to continue through the day. The region has seen localised hailstorms, often caused by strong updrafts within thunderclouds that carry raindrops into colder layers of the atmosphere where they freeze before falling as hail.
The weather shift is linked to a combination of moisture incursion from the Arabian Sea and instability in the lower atmosphere. These conditions are conducive to the formation of thunderstorms, particularly during the pre-monsoon period when temperature contrasts are high.
The impact is expected to expand further across the state. Rainfall activity is likely to intensify gradually over the coming days, with Mumbai also forecast to receive showers by midweek.
Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds may affect several districts, raising the risk of localised disruptions such as waterlogging and traffic delays.
DELHI UNDER ORANGE ALERT
Meanwhile, northern India is also witnessing unsettled weather. In Delhi, light rainfall was recorded on Monday as the India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert for the national capital.
The alert warns of moderate dust storms followed by thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds ranging between 50-70 kmph, with gusts potentially reaching 80 kmph.
The IMD has also indicated the possibility of lighter thunderstorms with wind speeds of 30-40 kmph in some areas. An orange alert signals the need for preparedness, as such weather can lead to reduced visibility, tree falls, and temporary disruptions to transport and power supply.
Experts say the current pattern reflects a transitional phase in seasonal weather, with multiple systems influencing different parts of the country simultaneously. Residents are advised to stay updated with forecasts and take necessary precautions during storm activity.
