A highly uncommon occurrence caught attention as videos of large swarms of small, mosquito-like insects creating what seems like a 'tornado' in certain parts of Pune raised significant concerns over the past few days. Specialists assert that the phenomenon, while striking, is not unprecedented, clarifying that these creatures are not mosquitoes but rather members of the insect family known as Chironomidae.
An unusual and concerning spectacle startled the residents of Keshavnagar and Kharadi gavthan areas in Pune on Wednesday. A tornado-like formation of mosquitoes took shape over the Mula Mutha River, with numerous videos capturing the event going viral on social media. The footage depicted a thick cloud of mosquitoes swirling in a vortex near the riverbank.
The reported reason behind this disturbance is attributed to an increase in water levels, creating an optimal breeding environment for insects. Experts note that such swarms are typical in tropical and subtropical regions, where mosquitoes engage in extensive mating. Posing a significant threat to public health, these mosquitoes are notorious for transmitting serious diseases like malaria, dengue, and yellow fever.
Residents found themselves gripped with panic and frustration as these mosquitoes created havoc, urging authorities to promptly intervene.