As mercury climbs down, some relief for Maharashtra

After facing a 'moderate heat wave', temperature dropped across Maharashtra bringing respite to the people from the scorching heat.

According to India Meteorological Department (IMD), Chandrapur on Frirday recorded the highest maximum temperature of 44.2 degree Celsius in the state.

A day earlier, Akola had recorded a maximum temperature in the state at 44 degree Celsius.

"The overall drop in minimum temperature is the main reason behind relief," IMD Director, Mumbai, V K Rajeev told PTI on Saturday.

Akola recorded 43.6 degree Celsius with a departure of 4.9 degree Celsius than the normal, while the lowest temperature stood at 23.6 degrees Celsius, 1.5 degrees above the normal.

"Departure (Change) in maximum temperature is moderate while in minimum temperature, it is negligible. It indicates that the moderate heat wave in isolated parts of the state has subsided," he said.

The IMD had on Friday, said, "The change in the direction of northerly winds avoided further escalation of temperature. With warm winds not coming towards Maharashtra, the temperature is expected to subside and it will offer some relief."

Hill station Mahabaleshwar remained coolest in the state on Friday with minimum temperature recorded at 20.4 degrees Celsius.

Wardha in Vidarbha region continued to sizzle at 43.8 degrees Celsius.