Mumbai is set to experience a welcome respite from the ongoing heatwave, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting a dip in temperatures to around 33 degrees Celsius in the coming week. This forecast comes after days of sweltering conditions, with maximum temperatures in some parts of the city soaring to 39 degrees Celsius.
Heatwave Grips Maharashtra, Akola Hottest City
The state of Maharashtra, particularly the Vidarbha region, has been under the grip of a severe heatwave. Akola recorded a blistering 46.9 degrees Celsius on Sunday, emerging as the country’s hottest city for the day and ranking among the hottest globally. Other cities in Vidarbha, including Amravati, Wardha, and Yavatmal, also registered extreme temperatures, with IMD issuing orange and yellow alerts for several districts, warning of continued severe heatwave conditions.
The intense heat has led to significant public discomfort, with outdoor workers and vendors being particularly affected. Reports indicate rising cases of dehydration and fatigue across the region. While minimum temperatures offered little relief, hovering between 24.5°C and 30°C, the lack of rainfall has exacerbated the dry and scorching conditions.
Mumbai’s Weather Outlook
In contrast to the severe heat in Vidarbha, Mumbai has been experiencing hot and humid weather, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 39°C in the eastern suburbs on Saturday. The city’s Santacruz observatory recorded 35.8°C, more than 2.2°C above normal, while the Colaba coastal observatory logged 33.7°C. These elevated temperatures, coupled with high humidity levels, have left citizens feeling uncomfortable.
However, the IMD’s forecast suggests a change in the weather pattern for Mumbai. After days of hot and humid conditions, a dip in temperatures is anticipated, with daytime temperatures expected to return to normal levels of 33 to 34°C by Tuesday. This reduction in temperature is expected to bring much-needed relief to Mumbaikars.
Meteorologists have attributed the recent hot spell in Mumbai to an active trough and an anticyclonic circulation, leading to an influx of both heat and moisture. Historically, April is one of the hottest months in Mumbai, with average temperatures ranging between 24°C and 33°C, and daily maximums sometimes reaching 40°C. The city is also prone to pre-monsoon thunderstorms during this period.
Broader Weather Patterns
The heatwave alert has been issued for several states across India, including parts of northwest and central India, with temperatures across the country largely ranging between 40°C and 45°C, except for the Western Himalayan region, northeast India, the west coast, and southern parts of Peninsular India. In response to the prevailing heat, the IMD has advised citizens to take precautions against heatstroke and stay hydrated.
Looking ahead, a gradual fall in maximum temperatures is expected over various regions of India. Northwest India is predicted to see a drop of 3-5°C by Wednesday and Thursday. Central India is also expected to experience a decrease of 2-3°C from Tuesday to Thursday. Maharashtra and Gujarat are forecasted to see a drop of 2-3°C starting Monday and Tuesday, respectively, aligning with the expected relief for Mumbai.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
