**Continuous Rains Lash Pune, Orange Alert Issued for Ghat Areas**
Pune has been experiencing continuous rainfall since last week, starting from the onset of Navratri. These persistent rains have dampened the festive spirit, affecting Dandiya celebrations across the city.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for the ghat regions of Pune district, specifically targeting the mountainous and hilly areas in Maval, Bhor, and Mulshi talukas. IMD officials have also forecasted torrential rains for Pune, Satara, and Kolhapur districts, along with other parts of western Maharashtra, expected to intensify by Saturday morning.
Throughout the week, several areas in Pune have reported waterlogging, exacerbating traffic congestion problems. However, with offices closed during the weekend, residents anticipate lighter traffic despite the ongoing rainfall on Saturday and Sunday.
In response, the Pune District Administration has urged residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel to ensure their safety.
The IMD has clarified that these rains are normal and not part of the monsoon withdrawal phase, indicating that the monsoon season is still active. Experts predict that the rains will continue into the coming week. Residents are advised to stay updated and plan their schedules accordingly.
Meanwhile, heavy rains have also battered Maharashtra’s Marathwada region over the past weeks, resulting in flooding across several districts, including Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Nanded, Latur, and Dharashiv. Solapur district in western Maharashtra has similarly reported flood conditions.
The Maharashtra Government is actively working on a war footing to assist affected residents and has assured prompt aid to farmers facing crop damage due to the adverse weather conditions.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/pune-rains-ghat-areas-given-orange-alert-showers-to-continue-next-week