Mumbai and its suburbs are enduring hot and humid weather conditions as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a ‘yellow’ alert for the city.
The IMD forecast indicates that the city will continue to face scorching temperatures throughout Wednesday, with little relief expected under the prevailing conditions. Skies are anticipated to remain mostly clear, allowing the sun to intensify the heat during the day. As per the weather advisory, the city’s maximum temperature is expected to reach around 36°C, with the minimum temperature hovering at about 24°C. This combination of heat and humidity has made outdoor activities uncomfortable, and residents are urged to take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. In addition to the heat, high humidity levels are further exacerbating the discomfort, making it feel significantly warmer than the actual temperature.
However, there is some respite in sight. The IMD has projected a slight dip in the temperature by April 12, with a potential decrease of around 3°C, which may bring the maximum temperature closer to 33°C. Despite this, the city is still expected to experience warmer-than-usual conditions as the summer months draw near. The reduction in temperatures, though marginal, may help ease the heatwave that has gripped the city in recent days. Experts suggest that Mumbai’s geographic location along the coast, combined with rising urbanisation and climate change, is contributing to the city’s increasing vulnerability to extreme weather patterns. The ongoing hot weather is a clear indicator of how cities like Mumbai are facing the pressures of adapting to both rapid development and unpredictable climate shifts.
The hot and humid conditions have raised concerns over the strain it places on Mumbai’s already overburdened infrastructure. Water supply, electricity, and public health systems are feeling the pressure, as the demand for air conditioning, water, and cooling systems soars. In particular, vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and outdoor workers are most at risk during such extreme weather events. The local authorities have been closely monitoring the situation, offering advisories on staying hydrated and limiting outdoor activities during peak heat hours. Meanwhile, the health department has issued guidelines for medical institutions to remain on high alert in case of an increase in heat-related illnesses like dehydration, heatstroke, and sunburn. This period has also highlighted the urgent need for better urban planning in Mumbai, where green spaces, climate-resilient infrastructure, and energy-efficient buildings are crucial to mitigating the impact of extreme weather.
In the long run, Mumbai’s challenges with rising temperatures and humidity are part of a broader issue of climate resilience. The city’s rapid urbanisation has led to a loss of greenery, an increase in the number of heat-retaining surfaces like concrete and asphalt, and a reduction in the natural cooling effect provided by the sea breeze. This phenomenon, often referred to as the “urban heat island effect,” exacerbates the impact of the rising temperatures, creating localised heat zones that make the environment even less livable during hot spells. To combat this, experts are calling for the implementation of sustainable solutions such as the expansion of green infrastructure, more tree plantations, the use of reflective and permeable surfaces in construction, and the incorporation of renewable energy systems that reduce dependence on conventional power sources. Cities like Mumbai must focus on making their infrastructure climate-proof, which will require a collaborative effort from government bodies, urban planners, and citizens alike.
Further, experts urge a comprehensive approach to water management that includes the preservation of natural water bodies, the development of stormwater harvesting systems, and improving water distribution to ensure equitable access during times of water scarcity. In light of the ongoing heatwave, the city’s preparedness in managing extreme weather conditions is becoming an increasingly important issue. The IMD’s prediction of a cooler week ahead may offer brief relief, but Mumbai’s vulnerability to rising temperatures underscores the need for long-term solutions. Efforts to enhance weather resilience through policies that encourage climate-conscious building practices, the use of cool roofing technologies, and investments in public health infrastructure are essential. There is also a growing recognition of the need for increased public awareness regarding heatwave risks and the importance of collective action to address the issue of climate change.
While the immediate forecast may offer some reprieve, experts continue to stress the importance of planning for future climate challenges. Mumbai, as one of the largest and most important metropolitan areas in India, must continue to adapt and innovate in the face of rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns. Climate resilience is no longer an option but a necessity for a sustainable, livable future for Mumbai’s residents.
Mumbai Faces Heat and Humidity Under Yellow Alert
