Mumbai is set to experience another bout of intense summer heat, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a yellow alert for the city and several other regions in Maharashtra. According to the weather agency, daytime temperatures in the financial capital could climb as high as 36 degrees Celsius in the coming days.
The city had only recently begun to get some respite from the severe heatwave conditions that gripped it last week. Temperatures had eased to around 34 degrees Celsius by Wednesday, providing a brief period of relief for residents. However, the IMD has forecast predominantly dry conditions and clear skies over Mumbai, signaling a return to hotter weather.
The weather department has specifically advised citizens to avoid direct exposure to the sun during afternoon hours when the heat is at its peak. It has also recommended that people engaged in outdoor physical activities stay well-hydrated. Historical records indicate that Mumbai’s highest-ever temperature reached 41 degrees Celsius on May 12, 1979.
In addition to Mumbai, the IMD has extended the yellow alert to cover Thane, Raigad, and Palghar districts starting from today. Thane could see maximum temperatures touching 38 degrees Celsius, while heat intensity is also expected to remain high in Raigad. Light rain and thunderstorms are anticipated in Thane only after May 18.
Parts of Maharashtra continue to face challenging weather patterns. Buldhana, traditionally known as a relatively cooler spot, has recorded a concerning rise in temperatures. Areas that once saw readings between 38 and 39 degrees Celsius have recently touched 43 degrees Celsius. Experts have highlighted potential impacts on public health, agriculture, and livestock due to the sustained high temperatures.
The IMD’s yellow alert serves as a cautionary signal for residents and local authorities to take necessary precautions amid the prevailing hot and dry spell. As Mumbai navigates these elevated temperatures, staying informed about weather updates and following official advisories remains crucial for minimizing health risks associated with the heat.
