The past few days have seen a steady rise in daytime heat, bringing back scorching afternoons and prompting residents to take precautions while stepping outdoors.

On Wednesday, the Shivajinagar observatory recorded a maximum temperature of 35.8°C, while Lohegaon recorded the city's highest at 37.7°C. The difference in readings is attributed to local atmospheric conditions and the effects of urban heat.

According to officials from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the current temperature pattern is not unusual for this time of the year. S D Sanap, senior meteorologist, IMD, Pune, said, "It is a normal departure. In Mumbai, Konkan the temperature is above normal. In Pune it is in normal range. We will see a rise in maximum temperature by 2-3 degrees Celsius for the next 5-7 days. It is due to anti-cyclonic circulation over the Maharashtra region. We will see variation in temperature according to atmospheric conditions going ahead."

Weather experts have indicated that the upward trend in temperatures is likely to continue across the state.

Anupam Kashyapi, former head of the Weather and Forecasting Division at IMD, Pune, said, "Day temperature in Pune is likely to rise slightly in the next few days; temperature will also rise across Maharashtra. For the next 48 hours, hot and humid weather is likely in Mumbai, Palghar, Thane, Raigad. There will not be much variation in night temperatures across the state. However, citizens are advised to take precautions."

Across Maharashtra, the highest maximum temperature was recorded in Akola at 39.3 degrees Celsius, indicating intensifying heat conditions in parts of Vidarbha. Meanwhile, the lowest minimum temperature in the state was reported from Jalgaon, where it dipped to 15.6 degrees Celsius.

With temperatures expected to rise further in the coming week, health experts advise citizens to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours, and take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.

City temperature

Station maximum minimum

Shivajinagar 35.8 16.7

Lohegaon 37.7 20.8

Chinchwad 35.7 21.5

Lavale 35.6 20.9

Magarpatta 35.2 22.4

Koregaon Park 37.5 20.9

(All figures in degrees Celsius)