Maharashtra Heatwave: IMD Issues Yellow Alert For Mumbai, 5 Other Districts

People across Maharashtra are currently facing a strong heatwave, even though there has not been a major rise in temperature. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for several districts, including Mumbai, due to hot and humid weather conditions.

The alert, issued on Monday, will remain in place for three days, according to the Lokmat report. It covers Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg. According to the IMD, temperatures in these areas may rise further, and the heat may feel more intense because of high humidity.

On Sunday, the Santacruz Observatory in Mumbai recorded a minimum temperature of 24 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 33.8 degrees Celsius. In Colaba, temperatures ranged from 25.5 degrees Celsius to 33.7 degrees Celsius. The humidity level in Mumbai reached 52 per cent on Monday, making the weather feel even hotter.

Last week, several areas in Maharashtra experienced unseasonal rain. This sudden change in weather added to the heat discomfort. Now, the IMD has warned that temperatures may increase by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius by April 11.

The IMD stated that while the heat is generally tolerable for healthy individuals, it could cause problems for young children, elderly people, and those with chronic health conditions. People are advised to drink plenty of fluids, avoid going out in the afternoon, and take care of their health.

Heat waves are common in Maharashtra between April and June, but experts believe that climate change and global warming have made them more frequent and longer-lasting in recent years.

Meanwhile, IMD Director-General Mrityunjay Mahapatra warned last week that much of India may experience a hotter-than-normal summer this year. He said that between April and June, several parts of north, east, and central India, as well as the northwestern plains, could see heatwave conditions lasting two to four days longer than usual.

The weather department also mentioned that the sky over Mumbai would remain clear for the next 24 hours, with no chance of rain.

Citizens are advised to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, wear light clothing, and stay hydrated to avoid heat-related illnesses.