The arrival of the monsoon has transformed the Western Ghats into a complete lush green paradise. If you are planning a quick getaway to witness this beauty, we are sure Lonavala is at the top of your list. It is surely one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra, especially during monsoon. However, before you pack your bags and hit the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, make sure you have taken a look at the current safety conditions to ensure a safe trip. Here’s everything you need to know about the weather warnings, administration, and road conditions to decide if it is safe to visit Lonavala this weekend. Check it out.
Weather Forecast
According to the rainfall data collected by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) till 8:30 AM on Wednesday, Lonavala received 74 mm of rainfall. The Senior Meteorologist at IMD Pune mentioned that the intensity of rainfall is expected to increase over the ghat areas, with some places witnessing heavy to very heavy rainfall.
The isolated pockets of the ghats are expected to witness heavy rainfall, with continuous downpour expected on Saturday and Sunday. A red alert has been issued for Friday, July 3, and an orange alert for Saturday, July 4.
The temperatures will be cool and pleasant between 21 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius. This will be accompanied by gusty winds.
Is It Safe To Visit Lonavala This Weekend?
Lonavala is located at a moderate elevation of approximately 625 meters. This keeps its primary access roads a bit safer than the steeper ghat sections. However, the possibility of waterlogging, slippery terrain, and minor mudslides cannot be ruled out during heavy and continuous rainfall.
Also, the cliffside spots or the dams are better not visited during heavy rainfall to avoid any unfortunate incident.
So, if you choose to visit this place, your trip must be focused on relaxing at a hillside resort or enjoying scenic drives, but with high caution.
Also Read: 9 Awesome Things To Do In Lonavala During Monsoon
Monsoon Safety Rules & Regulations
The local Pune district administration has now implemented strict monsoon restrictions. The implementation took place in order to handle the peak monsoon crowd and prevent any accidents or mishaps.
Cliffside
Popular viewpoints like Lion’s Point and Tiger’s Leap or Tiger Point experience heavy wind gusts and blinding fog. Hence, standing near unprotected edges or scaling wet rocks for photographs is completely prohibited.
Fort Trails
Treks to Visapur, Lohagad, or Rajmachi are not encouraged during such weather conditions, especially heavy downpour. The rock steps turn into fast-flowing streams, making them incredibly slippery and hazardous. So this is why you must try to avoid going on trails during this time.
Water Bodies
There are prohibitory orders active near all the water bodies that are tourist spots during the monsoon. This includes the famous Bhushi Dam and other surrounding waterfalls. Police personnel and lifeguards are stationed at these places to prevent people from wading into such fast-flowing water. It is better to stay behind the marked safety lines and respect the orders of the authorities.
Road Conditions
The Mumbai-Pune Expressway (NH-48) is completely operational, but the monsoon season does bring many challenges for the drivers, which they should be better prepared for.
The Khandala Ghat Stretch
You can easily expect sudden and dense fog patches between the Khandala and Lonavala exits. You must maintain a safe braking distance and do not forget to use fog lights for your and others’ safety.
Landslide Monitoring
The highway authorities are alert and constantly checking the vulnerable cliff stretches. This may occasionally cause minor traffic congestion or slowdown if any clearances are needed.
Local Traffic
Just like you thought of going to Lonavala during the weekend, many other people also get that idea. Hence, weekend crowds during July are very high. You can easily expect congestion near the Lonavala exit and the town market area as well.
Important Tips For Monsoon Travel
- Make sure you check the real-time maps to get an idea of the expressway congestion before you leave for your road trip.
- Ditch the umbrellas because they honestly are of no use. You must take a windproof and waterproof rain jacket with you.
- Opt for quick-dry trekking shoes with good grip. Avoid white sneakers, as the red Sahyadri soil might stain your white shoes permanently.
- Do not forget your zip-lock or other dry bags to keep your electronic gadgets like your phone and car keys safe.
- If the weather turns severe, shift to indoor spots like the local wax museum or stay at your resort and enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Summing Up
Make sure you read all the cautions that need to be taken if you decide to spend your weekend in Lonavala, especially during red and orange alerts! If you are wondering what to do in Lonavala, we also have a travel guide to Lonavala that you can refer to, but follow it with the monsoon special guidelines in mind.
