Mumbai Heatwave Alerts Issued: City Hits Scorching 38.4°C, Hottest February In Five Years

Mumbai is experiencing extreme heat, with the regional meteorological department warning of a heatwave on February 25 and 26, as reported by The Times of India. On Monday, the city recorded a scorching 38.4 degrees Celsius, making it the hottest February day in five years. The last time Mumbai reached this temperature was on February 28, 2020.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for the city. According to IMD's Santacruz observatory, the maximum temperature was 38.4 degrees Celsius, which is 6.4 degrees Celsius above normal. Meanwhile, the Colaba observatory recorded 36.8 degrees Celsius, 6.2 degrees Celsius above normal. Thane and Raigad have also been placed under a heatwave alert.

For February, Mumbai's highest-ever recorded temperature at the Santacruz observatory remains 39.6 degrees Celsius, recorded on February 25, 1966. The IMD classifies a heatwave when maximum temperatures exceed 37 degrees Celsius with a rise of 4.5 degrees Celsius or more above normal levels.

No Relief From The Scorching Heat

According to the IMD forecast, Mumbai's maximum temperature is expected to stay around 37 degrees Celsius over the next 24 hours, while the minimum may be around 22 degrees Celsius. This means residents are unlikely to get any relief from the heat.

IMD scientist Sushma Nair explained that the unusual rise in temperature is due to delayed sea breezes and strong easterly winds. "The heat has been concentrated in certain areas because of the delayed sea breeze and strong easterly winds. Additionally, the anticyclone at the mid-level is preventing air from rising," she said.

With the heatwave affecting the city, experts advise Mumbaikars to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.