IMD issues yellow alert in Mumbai, Thane and Palghar as it braces for heat and storms

Maharashtra to see heat, humidity and thunderstorms this week. Representational Image

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for several parts of Maharashtra on Thursday, including Mumbai, Thane and Palghar. The alert also covers coastal and southern districts stretching up to Kolhapur, along with parts of Marathwada such as Nanded, Latur and Solapur.

The warning comes as the state prepares for a mix of hot weather, humidity and thunderstorm activity over the next five days.

Mumbai and coastal areas to remain hot and humid

Weather in Mumbai is expected to stay warm and humid, with temperatures hovering between 30-35. The city recently recorded maximum temperatures of around 33 degrees Celsius, with no rainfall. "Heatwave conditions likely at isolated places," the weather alert for April 23 stated.

Similar conditions are likely in Thane and Palghar, although light rain or thundershowers may occur in the afternoon or evening.

Coastal districts like Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg may experience thunderstorms with lightning, moderate rainfall and gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph in isolated areas.

Thunderstorms and light rains expected in western and northern Maharashtra

Regions including Pune, Satara, Sangli and Kolhapur are likely to see thunderstorms accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. In the ghat areas, weather could turn more intense, with gusty winds of up to 50-60 kmph and even chances of hail at isolated places.

Districts such as Nashik, Dhule, Jalgaon and Nandurbar may witness light rain or thundershowers over the next few days, though some areas could remain dry at times.

In Marathwada, districts like Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Beed, Latur, Nanded and Parbhani are expected to see thunderstorms with lightning and moderate rainfall in isolated places, followed by dry spells.

Heatwave conditions in Vidarbha

Eastern Maharashtra, particularly Nagpur, Akola, Amravati, Chandrapur and Wardha, is likely to face heatwave conditions at isolated places. Wardha recently recorded the highest temperature in the state at 44.2 degrees Celsius.

Other parts of Vidarbha are expected to remain mostly dry, with no major warnings.

IMD advisory

-IMD has advised citizens to take precautionary measures against hot weather conditions while going outside during the peak hours of the day.
-The weather bureau has warned of heat rash during peak hours of the day.

Precautions suggested

-Avoid prolonged heat exposure.
-Stay hydrated. Drink sufficient water even if not feeling thirsty to avoid dehydration.
-Wear light weight, light coloured, loose, cotton clothes.
-Cover your head: use a wet cloth, hat or umbrella while going out during peak hours.
-Caution workers to avoid direct sunlight during the peak hours.
-Schedule strenuous jobs to cooler times of the day.
-Increasing the frequency and length of rest breaks for outdoor activities.
-Recognise the signs of heat stroke, heat rash or heat cramps such as weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, sweating and seizures. If you feel faint or ill, see a doctor/ hospital immediately.
-Farmers are advised to continue irrigation activities.