Pune Faces Extremely Heavy Rain Alert Until August 4

Pune district is expected to experience continued rainfall activity over the next five days, with the heaviest spell expected in the ghat regions adjoining the city.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall at isolated places in Pune city on Friday, while the nearby ghats have been placed under a warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall, with extremely heavy rain expected at isolated locations.

According to the IMD's district forecast, Pune city is expected to receive heavy rainfall at isolated places on July 31, followed by light to moderate rain on August 1. Rainfall intensity is likely to reduce further, with light rain forecast between August 2 and August 4.

The situation remains more concerning in the ghat sections of Pune district, including popular tourist destinations such as Tamhini Ghat, Lonavala-Khandala Ghat, Bhor Ghat, Varandha Ghat and surrounding hilly regions. The IMD has warned that these areas are likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall at several places, with extremely heavy rainfall at isolated locations on July 31.

Strong winds reaching 50-60 kmph, gusting up to 70 kmph, are also expected during intense weather spells. The forecast indicates that rainfall over the Pune ghats will remain active over the weekend, with heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places on August 1, heavy rainfall at isolated places on August 2, and moderate rainfall on August 3 and 4.

The IMD has cautioned that persistent heavy rainfall may lead to waterlogging in low-lying areas, flash floods, overflowing streams, landslides and rockfalls in vulnerable hill sections, besides disruption to road transport. Strong winds may also uproot weak trees and damage old or poorly maintained structures.

Water flow across low-lying roads and bridges is likely, while river catchments may witness rising water levels. Authorities have advised residents and tourists to remain cautious while travelling through the ghat sections. Motorists are urged to check traffic conditions before starting their journey and follow official advisories.

People have also been advised to avoid visiting waterfalls, entering overflowing streams or rivers, and taking shelter under trees during thunderstorms. The IMD has further recommended unplugging electrical appliances during lightning activity and immediately moving away from water bodies if thunderstorms develop.

The weather department has also issued an agricultural advisory, urging farmers to harvest mature crops wherever possible, ensure proper drainage of excess rainwater, avoid irrigation and chemical spraying during the rain spell, and keep harvested produce and livestock in safe locations to minimise losses.

The heavy rainfall alert in Pune is a significant concern for residents and tourists, and it is essential to take necessary precautions to ensure safety. The IMD's forecast and advisories should be closely followed to stay updated on the weather conditions.

In conclusion, the extremely heavy rain alert in Pune until August 4 is a matter of concern, and residents and tourists must remain cautious and follow the advisories issued by the authorities to ensure their safety.