Mumbai heatwave: Will there be relief anytime soon
What's the story
Mumbai is currently reeling under an unusual February heatwave, with temperatures soaring over 37°C.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning for the city, adding that such weather events are rare during this time of the year.
Normally, Mumbai enjoys cooler February weather due to the sea breeze. However, easterly winds have delayed its onset this year, causing a rise in temperatures.
Rising temperatures
Delayed sea breeze and climate change fuel Mumbai's heatwave
The sea breeze, which generally regulates temperature in coastal cities such as Mumbai, has been delayed due to easterly winds. This delay is exacerbating the heatwave.
"For any coastal city, the sea breeze regulates the temperature," Sushma Nair, an IMD scientist, said.
Climate change is also believed to play a role in these rising temperatures, with winds from desert regions in the Middle East and the Mediterranean bringing more heat and humidity.
Record heat
Mumbai records 5-year high February temperature
Mumbai's maximum temperature recently soared to a staggering 38.4°C, a five-year high for the month of February.
The temperature was recorded by the Santa Cruz observatory and was 6.4 degrees above normal.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for heatwave conditions in Mumbai and surrounding areas like Thane and Raigard, warning residents of continued high temperatures in the coming weeks.
Weather instability
Unstable weather conditions due to low-pressure system
A low-pressure system over western Rajasthan extending toward central Maharashtra is making Mumbai's weather unstable.
The system causes frequent temperature shifts, providing temporary morning relief but sweltering afternoons.
Despite a slight drop in morning temperatures recently, experts predict ongoing heat in the coming weeks.
The IMD advises residents to avoid outdoor activities between 11am and 4pm and suggests staying hydrated, and wearing light clothes.
Weather shift
Northern India sees reduction in winter chill
While Mumbai is reeling under a heatwave, northern India is witnessing a dip in winter chill with increasing maximum temperatures. However, Kashmir and Uttarakhand continue to witness snowfall.
The IMD predicts Mumbai's high temperatures will continue for a few more days before any major relief is witnessed.
Temperatures in Kashmir were below normal in isolated places, ranging from negative 1.6°C to negative 3°C.