Mumbai weather update: No heatwave, but city to remain warm until October 31, says IMD

With Mumbai currently reeling under hot weather conditions and the October heat affecting citizens experts have advised Mumbaikars about staying safe from developing health issues during the rising temperatures and hot and humid weatherAccording to the India Meteorological Department IMD daytime temperatures are expected to stay between 32 degrees Celsius and 34 degrees Celsius throughout the month while morning temperatures will range from 22 degrees Celsius to 26 degrees CelsiusSenior IMD official Shubhangi Bhute told midday This heat is seasonal and not extreme and there are no signs of a heatwave as of now She advised people to avoid going outdoors between 12 pm and 4 pm when the sun is at its strongest A slight drop in temperature is expected between 31 October and 6 November which could bring some reliefCompared to October 2024 this yearrsquos October will be relatively normal and not excessively hot although it will be a dry month Bhute said Meanwhile as the monsoon withdraws air pollution levels are on the riseIMD experts say air quality in October is usually worse compared to other months because of dry weather low wind speeds and poor dispersion of pollutants It leads to a hazy atmosphere especially in the mornings and evenings The main pollutants include PM25 and PM10 which can affect breathing and health especially in sensitive groups like children and the elderlyDoctors across Mumbai have reported an increase in heatrelated illnesses People are suffering from dehydration heatstroke fatigue and breathing issues according to Dr Swarup Swaraj Pal Chief CVTS and Transplant Surgeon at Gleneagles Hospital ParelDr Pal warned that children elderly people and those with heart kidney or lung problems are at higher risk during this season According to Dr Pal there has also been a significant rise in cases of urinary tract infections menstrual irregularities low blood pressure vaginal infections and skinrelated conditions like heat rashes fungal infections and dryness He highlighted that compared to the same period last year more women are reporting dizziness fatigue and intensified premenstrual symptoms largely attributed to dehydration and extended outdoor exposureWomen in particular are showing increased premenstrual symptoms dizziness and fatigue ndash largely due to dehydration and long exposure to the sun Dr Pal told middayDr Pal urged Mumbaikars to stay alert for early signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke which may include dizziness or fainting nausea rapid heartbeat headaches muscle cramps and either excessive sweating or an unusual lack of it He pointed out that persistent fatigue especially if it doesnrsquot improve with rest could be a warning sign of dehydration or heat exhaustion and should not be ignoredExperts suggest how to stay safe during current hot weather in MumbaiDr Pal shared useful tips for staying healthy during the October heatDrink at least 2 litres of water every dayEat cooling foods like coconut water cucumber and watermelonAvoid spicy or oily foodWear light cotton clothesRest well and stay in ventilated areasApply sunscreen and avoid outdoor activity between 12 pm and 4 pmTake frequent breaks in the shade if working outsideAvoid wearing heavy clothes that can trap sweat and heatWatch out for early signs of heat exhaustion such as dizziness nausea headaches or rapid heartbeatDr Pal said The period from late September to early November is usually the most uncomfortable with high humidity unexpected heatwaves and slow monsoon withdrawal could make people feel drained and uneasiness