Mumbai Endures Third Day of Heatwave-Like Conditions Despite Temperature Drop
For the third consecutive day, Mumbai continued to grapple with heatwave-like weather conditions on Friday, even as the day temperature showed a slight decrease compared to the scorching levels recorded on March 4 and 5. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a hot and humid weather warning, indicating that dry conditions are likely to persist through Saturday, with fresh alerts also announced for March 8 and 9.
Temperature Readings Show Mixed Trends
On Friday, the maximum temperature recorded at the IMD Santacruz observatory was 34.6 degrees Celsius, which is 1.6 degrees above the normal range. Meanwhile, the IMD Colaba observatory registered a maximum of 32.2 degrees Celsius, marking a one-degree increase above normal. This represents a significant dip from the previous day, when Santacruz and Colaba recorded highs of 38.9 degrees Celsius and 36.4 degrees Celsius, respectively.
Relative humidity levels were also notable, with the Colaba observatory reporting 51% and Santacruz at 58%. The minimum temperatures remained elevated, with Colaba recording 25.4 degrees Celsius (3.4 degrees above normal) and Santacruz at 23.6 degrees Celsius (3.7 degrees above normal).
Expert Analysis and Future Predictions
Independent weather observer Athreya Shetty explained that the slight temperature reduction was anticipated. "The reason that Friday or Saturday is expected to see lesser day temperatures compared to what the city saw on March 4-5 is because as sea breeze set in early," Shetty stated. "March 8-10 can once again see temperatures rising to 36-38°C for the city with humidity rising too."
Shetty added that from March 11 onwards, the seasonal anti-cyclone currently driving north-easterly winds will shift back to its normal position over the Arabian Sea. This change is expected to bring cooler westerly winds, leading to a sustained drop in day temperatures, returning them to the seasonal norm of 33-35 degrees Celsius for Mumbai.
Underlying Causes and Continued Alerts
The city has been experiencing these heatwave-like conditions since Wednesday, with maximum temperatures soaring up to five degrees above normal. This phenomenon is largely attributed to dry easterly winds prevailing over the region. The IMD's warnings highlight the ongoing risk of hot and humid weather, urging residents to take necessary precautions.
As Mumbai navigates this extended period of elevated temperatures, authorities and weather experts continue to monitor the situation closely, providing updates to help the public stay informed and safe.
