The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Mumbai, warning of a rise in temperatures accompanied by oppressive humidity between April 15 (Wednesday) and April 16 (Thursday).
The advisory signals uncomfortable weather conditions, urging residents to remain cautious.
Temperatures Set To Climb Beyond Seasonal Norms
According to reports, daytime temperatures in Mumbai are expected to climb above 35°C on Wednesday. This projected increase places Mumbai slightly above its usual April averages, indicating an early intensification of summer conditions.
On April 13 (Monday), the Santacruz weather station recorded a high of 35°C, which stood 1.6°C above the seasonal norm. Meanwhile, the coastal Colaba observatory registered a comparatively lower maximum of 33.7°C during the same period.
Despite the recorded temperatures, residents experienced significantly greater discomfort due to elevated humidity levels. In several parts of the city, the heat index, a combined measure of temperature and humidity, exceeded 38°C.
The heat index reflects how hot conditions actually feel to the human body when moisture in the air reduces the effectiveness of sweat evaporation, intensifying the sensation of heat.
Konkan Region Weather
The weather system is not limited to Mumbai alone. The broader Konkan belt is also expected to experience similar hot and humid conditions over the coming days.
Districts including Palghar, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg fall under the same yellow alert window of April 15-16. In neighbouring regions such as Thane and Raigad, warnings have been issued a day earlier, beginning April 14 (Tuesday).
Forecasts suggest that while Mumbai’s temperatures may hover around 35°C, Thane could see readings exceeding 36°C during this period.
Anti-Cyclonic Circulation Behind Rising Temperatures
Meteorologists have linked the anticipated spike in temperatures to the formation of an anticyclonic circulation over the region. This system is likely to bring in dry northerly winds, which contribute to heating by limiting cloud formation and enhancing solar radiation at the surface.
Despite the rising temperatures and discomfort levels, authorities have clarified that no official heatwave alert has been issued so far.
In coastal cities like Mumbai, a heatwave is typically declared only when maximum temperatures consistently exceed normal levels by approximately 4.5°C to 6.4°C. While current conditions are intense, they do not yet meet this threshold.
April Historically Prone To Heat Spikes
Mumbai often experiences short bursts of intense heat during April, occasionally interrupted by brief relief.
Historical data from the IMD show that the city’s highest recorded April temperature occurred on April 14, 1952, when the mercury soared to 42.2°C, a benchmark that remains one of the most extreme heat events in the city’s recorded history.
