Pune, Maharashtra – Rising temperatures across the state have led to a surge in heat-related illnesses, with 15 cases of heatstroke reported between March 1st and April 12th, 2026, according to the state health department. Even as no fatalities have been confirmed, health officials are expressing concern as the heat continues to intensify.
Rising Cases and Regional Impact
Ratnagiri has been particularly affected, accounting for six of the reported heatstroke cases. Palghar follows with two cases, while Pune, Raigad, Nashik, Nandurbar, Jalgaon, Jalna, and Gadchiroli each reported one case.
The impact of the heatwave is evident in Pune, where over 600 residents sought treatment for heat-related conditions in March alone. Dr. Vaishali Jadhav, assistant medical officer at the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), reported that 654 patients were treated at civic healthcare facilities during the month.
Specific Heat-Related Illnesses Reported
- 202 cases of heat exhaustion
- 280 instances of dehydration
- 114 patients with heat rash
- 24 cases of heat cramps
- 28 instances of heat edema (swelling)
- 6 cases of heat syncope (fainting or dizziness)
Temperatures in areas of Pune, including Lohegaon, Koregaon Park, and Shivajinagar, have exceeded 40 degrees Celsius. Across Maharashtra, over 2.6 lakh people visited outpatient departments at primary health centres, rural hospitals, and district hospitals during the same period.
Although no deaths have been directly attributed to heatstroke, officials have noted 89 deaths due to cardiovascular diseases during the same timeframe. With temperatures forecast to reach 41–42 degrees Celsius in the coming days, health experts are warning of prolonged thermal stress, exacerbated by consistently high nighttime temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas of Maharashtra have reported heatstroke cases?
Ratnagiri accounted for six cases, followed by Palghar with two. Additional cases were reported in Pune, Raigad, Nashik, Nandurbar, Jalgaon, Jalna and Gadchiroli, with one case each.
How many patients were treated for heat-related illnesses in Pune during March?
A total of 654 patients were treated across 19 civic hospitals and 135 dispensaries in Pune during March for conditions linked to extreme heat.
What is the expected temperature range in the coming days?
Temperatures are expected to rise further to 41–42 degrees Celsius in the coming days.
As temperatures continue to climb, how will communities prepare for the potential for increased heat-related health challenges?
