11 March,2026 11:58 AM IST | Mumbai | Poonam Ahuja
On Tuesday, the maximum temperature recorded by the IMD Santacruz observatory was 40°C, which was 7.6°C above normal. FILE PIC/ASHISH RAJE
After a scorching start to the week, with temperatures touching 40 degrees in Mumbai, the city is expected to get slight relief from Wednesday as the mercury is likely to dip, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Weather officials said the decline in temperature will be gradual, offering some respite after the unusually intense early-March heat.
On Tuesday, the maximum temperature recorded by the IMD Santacruz observatory was 40°C, which was 7.6°C above normal, while the IMD Colaba observatory recorded 35.4°C, which was 4.3°C above normal. The IMD on Tuesday afternoon issued an orange alert for Mumbai and the entire MMR, including, Thane and Palghar, predicting heatwave to severe heatwave conditions in isolated pockets.
mid-day contacted Sushma Nair, scientist at IMD Mumbai, to seek clarity on some burning questions.
Why has Mumbai's temperature touched 40 degree C so early in the season?
There is an anticyclonic circulation over Gujarat and its neighbourhood, bringing dry easterlies over the region. This stalls the sea breeze, which generally moderates the temperatures of coastal cities. Therefore, the maximum temperature rises. Yesterday [Monday], the temperature in Santacruz was 6 degree C above normal. There is no western disturbance or any other system affecting the temperature, and it is only the effect of the anticyclonic circulation.
What is the forecast for Mumbai over the next few days?
The effect of the anticyclone will diminish from today [Wednesday], and the maximum temperature is expected to fall over North Konkan. On Tuesday, we issued orange alerts for Palghar, Mumbai, and Thane. For Wednesday, a yellow alert has been issued for North Konkan, warning of hot and humid conditions.
Sushma Nair, scientist, IMD Mumbai
Does this qualify as a heatwave according to the IMD criteria for coastal cities?
Yes. The maximum temperature should be 37 degree C or more, and its departures from normal should be more than 4.5 degree C. Around 4.5 degree C to 6.4 degree C departures from normal qualify for a heatwave. Any departures from 6.5 degree C and above qualify to be termed a severe heatwave.
Are such high March temperatures becoming more frequent in Mumbai?
Last year, too, a severe heatwave was recorded in the first week of March. This is transition season, so March generally records high temperatures. Stay hydrated and avoid long exposure to the sun.
Which areas of Mumbai are recording the highest temperatures?
Ram Mandir - 42.4°C
Vikhroli - 41.6°C
Byculla - 40.0°C
Bandra - 39.7°C
Vidyavihar - 39.5°C
Chembur - 38.8°C
Dahisar - 38.8°C
âWith temperatures rising above 38 degree C and high humidity in Mumbai, we commonly see cases of dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, heatstroke, low blood pressure, and worsening of pre-existing heart or kidney conditions. The combination of heat and humidity makes it harder for the body to cool itself through sweating, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. Outdoor workers, elderly individuals, and patients with chronic illnesses are presenting more frequently with heat-related complications.'
- Dr Rahul Gupta, intervention cardiologist, Gleneagles Hospital, Mumbai
First aid for someone suffering from heatstroke:
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Immediate steps include:
⢠Shift the person to a cool or air-conditioned place.
⢠Remove excess clothing.
⢠Sponge the body with cool water or apply ice packs to the neck, armpits, and groin.
⢠If conscious, give small sips of cool water.
⢠Please seek emergency medical assistance right away.
If untreated, heatstroke can lead to organ damage, seizures, or even death.
Early signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke people should watch out for:
Early warning signs include:
⢠Excessive sweating
⢠Severe thirst
⢠Fatigue or weakness
⢠Headache
⢠Dizziness or lightheadedness
⢠Nausea or vomiting
⢠Muscle cramps
Warning signs of heatstroke include:
⢠Very high body temperature
⢠Confusion or altered behaviour
⢠Dry, hot skin (sometimes no sweating)
⢠Rapid pulse
⢠Unconsciousness
Any confusion or collapse in hot weather should be treated as an emergency.
Dr Rahul Gupta, intervention cardiologist, Gleneagles Hospital
Which groups are most at risk during extreme heat - children, elderly, outdoor workers?
The most vulnerable groups include:
⢠Elderly individuals
⢠Young children and infants
⢠Outdoor workers (construction workers, traffic police, delivery staff)
⢠Pregnant women
⢠Athletes training outdoors
⢠People living in poorly ventilated homes
These groups either cannot regulate body temperature effectively or are exposed to prolonged heat.
Are patients with heart conditions, diabetes or BP more vulnerable during heatwaves?
Yes. Patients with heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and kidney problems are more vulnerable. Heat can cause dehydration, which thickens the blood and increases strain on the heart. Blood pressure may fluctuate, and diabetics may experience unstable sugar levels. Certain medications like diuretics can worsen dehydration risk.
Such patients must be extra cautious and maintain regular hydration and medication schedules.
What are the most important precautions people should take during such high temperatures?
Key precautions include:
⢠Stay well hydrated throughout the day.
⢠Avoid stepping out between 11 am and 4 pm.
⢠Wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothing.
⢠Use caps, umbrellas, and sunglasses when outdoors.
⢠Never leave children or elderly individuals in parked cars.
⢠Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
⢠Keep homes well-ventilated.
Prevention is far easier than treating heatstroke.
How much water intake is recommended in this kind of heat?
On average, adults should aim for at least 2.5 to 3.5 litres of fluids per day in extreme heat. Those who sweat excessively or work outdoors may require even more.
In addition to water, coconut water, lemon water with salt, and oral rehydration solutions (ORS) can help maintain electrolyte balance.
What kind of diet or foods help the body stay cool during extreme heat?
Light, easily digestible meals are best. Recommended foods include:
⢠Seasonal fruits like watermelon, muskmelon, and oranges
⢠Cucumber and salads
⢠Curd and buttermilk
⢠Coconut water
⢠Home-cooked, less spicy meals
These help maintain hydration and prevent digestive discomfort.
What foods or drinks should people avoid during very hot weather?
People should limit:
⢠Alcohol
⢠Excess caffeine
⢠Very spicy and oily foods
⢠Deep-fried snacks
⢠Sugary carbonated beverages
These can worsen dehydration or increase body heat.
Should people avoid outdoor activities during certain hours of the day?
Yes. Outdoor activities should ideally be avoided between 11 am and 4 pm, when temperatures peak. If unavoidable, ensure proper hydration, wear protective clothing, and take frequent breaks in shaded areas.
