Mumbai, April 21: After days of relentless heat and rising humidity, a spell of pre monsoon rain is expected to bring some relief to Mumbai and neighbouring regions early next week, according to the India
Meteorological Department.
Rain relief on the horizon
Weather officials have indicated that the first round of pre monsoon showers is likely to arrive on Monday. Parts of Panvel and areas around the Navi Mumbai International Airport have already witnessed heavy rainfall, signalling a shift in weather patterns.
Earlier forecasts had also pointed to light rain and thunderstorms across Mumbai, Thane and Raigad, with possibilities of lightning, moderate showers and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30 to 40 kilometres per hour.
Yellow alert across Maharashtra
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Thane, Raigad and several districts across Maharashtra, including Ratnagiri, Satara, Pune Ghats and Nagpur among others. A yellow alert indicates the possibility of adverse weather conditions, urging residents to stay cautious and prepared.
Authorities have advised people to remain alert, especially in areas prone to waterlogging or sudden gusty winds.
Heatwave like conditions persist
Despite the forecast of rain, Tuesday morning began on a warm note for Mumbai, with temperatures already touching 29 degrees Celsius early in the day. The mercury is expected to rise further, with daytime highs ranging between 34 and 39 degrees Celsius across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
While Mumbai is likely to hover around 32 degrees Celsius, neighbouring Thane may see temperatures climb as high as 39 degrees Celsius, intensifying discomfort for residents
Air quality dips amid rising heat
Adding to the discomfort, the city’s air quality has slipped into the poor category. The Air Quality Index currently stands at 130, with key pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10 recorded at concerning levels.
Several parts of the city are reporting AQI readings between 116 and 144. While not immediately hazardous, prolonged exposure to such air can affect individuals with respiratory conditions and the elderly.
With rain expected in the coming days, residents are hoping for a much needed dip in both temperatures and pollution levels.
Heatwave Conditions Across Maharashtra
The situation is not limited to Mumbai. Maharashtra has been experiencing an intense heatwave over the past few days. Between March 1 and April 19, the state reported 31 confirmed heatstroke cases and one suspected death.
Vidarbha and central Maharashtra remain the worst affected. On April 20, Amravati recorded the highest temperature at 43.4 degrees Celsius, closely followed by Akola at 43.2 degrees Celsius. At least 15 weather stations across the state reported maximum temperatures between 40 and 42 degrees Celsius. Pune too recorded a high of 39.7 degrees Celsius.
Health Concerns And Advisory
With temperatures rising and air quality dipping, health experts are urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid peak afternoon hours, and limit outdoor activity. The combination of heat and pollution can increase fatigue, dehydration, and breathing discomfort.
As the week progresses, the city is expected to remain hot and mostly sunny, offering little immediate relief from the ongoing heat spell.
