The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday issued a heatwave alert for Mumbai and its neighbouring districts, warning of hot and humid conditions in isolated pockets between April 5 and April 8. The affected areas include Mumbai, Palghar, Thane, Raigad, and Ratnagiri. IMD officials have indicated that heatwave conditions may persist until April 8, with a slight drop in temperatures thereafter. However, humidity levels will remain high, offering respite to residents.
According to RMC Mumbai, hot and humid conditions will prevail on:
April 5 in Thane, Raigad, Mumbai Suburbs, Palghar, Ratnagiri
April 6 in Thane, Raigad, Mumbai Suburbs, Palghar, Ratnagiri
April 7 in Thane, Raigad, Mumbai Suburbs, Palghar, Ratnagiri
April 8 in Thane, Raigad, Mumbai Suburbs, Palghar, Ratnagiri
The weather department has also issued a yellow alert for April 4 with the possibility of thunderstorms accompanied with lightning, light to moderate rainfall and gusty winds (up to 30- 40 kmph) at isolated places in Mumbai, Thane and Palghar.
Possibility of thunderstorms and rains have also been predicted across many other districts in Maharashtra on April 4.
Dos and Don'ts For Heatwave
The IMD has advised vulnerable groups to take necessary precautions, as heat cramps and heat rashes are likely during peak hours. To minimise the risk, residents are advised to avoid travelling under direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
The weather body has also issued an advisory which includes:
Staying hydrated and avoiding direct sun exposure, especially between 12 pm – 4 pm.
Wearing light, loose-fitting clothing and using protective gear like hats and sunglasses.
Farmers are advised to continue irrigation activities.
Further, it is advised to stay alert for signs of heatstroke, which may include weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, excessive sweating, and seizures.
Maharashtra District-Wise Weather Forecast
IMD has issued yellow alert for few states in Maharashtra on the possibility of Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning and light to moderate rainfall.
Hot and humid conditions are likely to prevail in many districts for the next few days.
Tap on the PDF below to check the detailed distric-wise weather forecast and warnings till April 8.
When Does IMD Declare a Heatwave?
According to IMD guidelines, a heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40°C or more in plains, 37°C or more in coastal areas and 30°C or more in hilly regions. Another method IMD deploys to determine a heatwave for any region is to check if the departure from the normal maximum temperature is 5 degrees Celsius or more.
Further. if a region's actual maximum temperature remains 45 degrees Celsius or more, IMD considers it a heatwave, irrespective of the normal maximum temperature.
The criteria for a heatwave has to be met in two meteorological subdivisions for at least two consecutive days, the IMD explained.
Residents are advised to stay informed through IMD updates and take necessary precautions to stay safe during these extreme weather conditions.
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