Mumbais brief respite with the winter chill has officially come to an end, making way for the arrival of the hotter months. Each day, temperatures gradually increase, marking the transition towards summer. The rising heat levels have started to affect daily life, and meteorologists warn that the city is set to experience even hotter days in the coming weeks. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that Mumbai is currently witnessing a steady rise in temperatures, which aligns with the expected seasonal shift.

Recent temperature trends in the city

The latest temperature readings from the citys weather stations indicate a significant rise in heat levels. On Tuesday, the Santacruz observatory, which serves as Mumbais primary weather station, recorded a maximum temperature of 36.8 degrees Celsius. This temperature was 3.8 degrees above the normal range for this time of year. In comparison, Mondays recorded temperature stood at 35.3 degrees Celsius, already showing an upward trend. Meanwhile, the Colaba weather station, which primarily monitors the southern parts of Mumbai, recorded a slightly lower maximum temperature of 33.1 degrees Celsius.

Not just the daytime temperatures, but even the nighttime temperatures have been above normal levels. On Tuesday, the minimum temperature recorded in Santacruz was 20.6 degrees Celsius, while in Colaba, the minimum temperature stood at 24.2 degrees Celsius, which was 2.2 degrees higher than the expected norm. These figures indicate that Mumbais nights are also becoming warmer as the seasonal transition progresses.

IMDs Weather Forecast and Expert Insights

According to Sunil Kamble, Director of IMD Mumbai, the current temperature trends are in line with seasonal expectations. The city will witness a gradual temperature rise, which is expected during this period, Kamble stated. He further explained that the increase in temperatures can be attributed to various atmospheric changes, including the formation of a high-pressure zone in the atmosphere and the cessation of westerly winds, which had been providing some relief earlier.

The IMD has forecasted that over the next six days, beginning from March 5, Mumbais maximum temperature will fluctuate between 35 to 38 degrees Celsius. Similarly, the minimum temperature is expected to range between 19 and 23 degrees Celsius. This prediction suggests that Mumbaikars should brace themselves for more intense heat as summer approaches.

Factors Contributing to the Rising Heat

Several meteorological factors are contributing to the current spike in temperatures across Mumbai. One of the primary reasons is the seasonal shift, which naturally leads to warmer conditions as the region moves closer to summer. In addition to this, the formation of a high-pressure zone in the atmosphere has resulted in reduced airflow, trapping heat and causing temperatures to rise steadily.

Another contributing factor is the weakening of westerly winds, which had previously brought cooler air to the region. With these winds now absent, hot air masses are dominating the citys weather pattern, further intensifying the heat. The combination of these factors is driving Mumbais temperatures above the seasonal average, making the upcoming days increasingly warmer.

Preparing for Hotter Days Ahead

As Mumbai moves towards peak summer, residents should prepare for warmer conditions and take necessary precautions to stay safe from the heat. The IMD advises staying hydrated, avoiding direct exposure to the sun during peak hours, and wearing light, breathable clothing. With temperatures expected to remain high, Mumbaikars must be mindful of heat-related illnesses and take proactive measures to ensure their well-being.

The steady rise in temperature signals that summer is fast approaching, and Mumbais residents will need to adapt to the changing climate in the weeks ahead. The IMD will continue to monitor weather patterns and provide updates as the season progresses, ensuring that the city remains well-informed about the evolving weather conditions.