After experiencing an unusually warm April, Mumbai gears up for even hotter days in May, as per the latest forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), raising concerns of prolonged heatwave conditions.
As the sweltering heat of April begins to wane, Mumbai residents find little relief as the IMD predicts a warmer May ahead. Following a stretch of scorching temperatures, with the mercury hovering above 38 degrees Celsius for consecutive days, the city saw a slight dip in temperatures on Wednesday, offering temporary respite. However, this reprieve is short-lived, with the IMD issuing a yellow alert for hot and humid conditions starting Saturday.
In addition to Mumbai, Thane and Raigad districts are also on high alert for heatwave conditions from Saturday onwards. IMD scientists attribute this forecast to an anti-cyclonic circulation system, cautioning residents to prepare for elevated temperatures in the coming days.
The monthly outlook for May indicates above-normal temperatures, with a higher frequency of heatwave days anticipated, particularly in the western regions of the country. Mumbai, in particular, faces a 75% probability of experiencing temperatures above the seasonal average, according to IMD forecasts.
The criteria for a heatwave alert include temperatures exceeding 37 degrees Celsius for two consecutive days or more. Mumbai witnessed six heatwave days in April, including a severe heatwave day on April 16, when temperatures soared to a decade-high of 39.7 degrees Celsius.
Experts attribute these extreme weather patterns to prolonged dry spells and the persistence of anticyclones over the region. The absence of rain exacerbates the heatwave conditions, posing challenges for residents and authorities alike.
As Mumbai braces for a warmer May, the IMD’s heatwave alerts underscore the importance of staying vigilant and adopting preventive measures to mitigate the impact of soaring temperatures on health and well-being.
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