Pune: After Heavy Rainfall, Maharashtra to Experience Cold Winter, IMD Predicts

Pune, 3rd October 2024: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted that following above-average rainfall in Maharashtra this year, the state is likely to experience a colder-than-usual winter season. Additionally, with more-than-average rains expected in most parts of the country in October, there is a possibility of rain accompanied by cold winds during Diwali.

The IMD has also issued a warning for an ‘October heatwave’ in most parts of the state. IMD Director General Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated that global temperatures have been rising in recent years. If the ‘La Niña’ system in the Pacific Ocean becomes active, the country could face an even colder winter. However, more accurate predictions will be available by early November.

The average rainfall for October in India is typically 75.4 mm, but this year, the IMD expects a 115 percent increase. North Konkan, South Madhya Maharashtra, and East Vidarbha, along with Mumbai, are likely to receive significant rainfall this month, according to Mohapatra.

The withdrawal of the monsoon began on 23rd September but briefly paused on 24th September. As of 2nd October, the monsoon has completely retreated from Leh, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and parts of Rajasthan. The monsoon rains are expected to cease in Mumbai and Pune around 10th October.

Seasonal winds have already started their return from some parts of North India, and the monsoon winds are expected to retreat from Maharashtra in the coming days. Meanwhile, after experiencing heavy rainfall last week, Mumbai’s temperature has begun to rise.