No heatwave, but Mumbai city on alert as humidity soars

People use scarves and coverings to beat the heat as humidity remains high in Mumbai. Pics/Sayyed Sameer Abedi

As temperatures hover in the mid-30°C range, civic authorities have assured that Mumbai's healthcare system is prepared to handle heat-related illnesses, even as the city continues to experience high humidity levels.

Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide on Tuesday said that while Mumbai does not have a history of severe heatwave impact like interior Maharashtra, city hospitals are equipped to handle cases where health is affected by heat, and the administration is following National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines to tackle potential health risks.

Residents shield themselves from the sun as humid conditions push discomfort levels despite no heatwave alert. Pics/Sayyed Sameer Abedi

Humidity, not heat waves, drives discomfort

Bhide said Mumbai's summers are characterised more by humidity than extreme temperatures.

On Tuesday:
>> Santacruz recorded a maximum temperature of 33.6°C
>> Colaba recorded a maximum temperature of 33.6°C

Humidity levels were high:
>> Colaba: 88%
>> Santacruz: 78%
In contrast, parts of interior Maharashtra saw temperatures cross 40°C, with Jalgaon recording a high of 44°C.

Mumbaikars cover their faces to cope with heat and high humidity levels across the city

No heat wave alert for Mumbai

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a green alert for Mumbai, indicating no immediate heatwave threat. However, districts in interior Maharashtra - including Jalna, Parbhani, Beed, Hingoli, Nanded, Akola and Amravati - are under a yellow alert for heat conditions.

What qualifies as a heat wave?

According to the IMD, for coastal regions like Mumbai:

Heatwave:
>> Temperature ≥ 37°C
>> Departure from normal ≥ 4.5°C
Severe heatwave:
>> Departure from normal > 6.4°C
>> Conditions must persist for at least two consecutive days

How to respond to heat exposure (NDMA guidelines)

If someone shows signs of heat stress:
>> Move them to a shaded, cool place
>> Give water or oral rehydration fluids (if conscious)
>> Fan the person
>> Apply a cool, wet cloth to the body
>> Loosen clothing for ventilation
>> Seek medical help if symptoms worsen or the person is unconscious
>> Avoid alcohol, caffeine or aerated drinks

Essentials to carry in hot weather

>> Water bottle
>> Umbrella, hat or head cover
>> Hand towel
>> Hand fan
>> Electrolytes, glucose or oral rehydration solution

Warning signs of heat-related illness

Heat cramps: Swelling, fainting, mild fever (below 39°C)
Heat exhaustion: Fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, sweating

Heat stroke (medical emergency):
Body temperature ≥ 40°C
Delirium, seizures or coma