Mumbai and its suburban areas are expected to witness partly cloudy skies on Tuesday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting a maximum temperature of around 34 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 27 degrees Celsius.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board’s Sameer App, Mumbai’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 54 on Tuesday, placing it in the ‘Satisfactory’ category.
However, officials noted that sensitive individuals may experience minor breathing discomfort.
AQI levels across Mumbai
Among key areas in the city, Andheri East recorded the highest AQI at 73, followed by Deonar at 97 and Bandra Kurla Complex at 64.
Other readings included:
Borivali East – 57
Ghatkopar – 62
Colaba – 54
Chembur – 47
AQI in Mumbai Metropolitan Region
In the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), Thane recorded an AQI of 68, while Navi Mumbai stood at 63. Kalyan reported the highest AQI in the region at 100.
Delhi-NCR braces for severe heatwave as IMD issues yellow alert till May 22
Meanwhile, Delhi-NCR is witnessing an intensifying spell of extreme heat, with the IMD issuing a yellow alert for severe heatwave conditions expected to continue over the next three days.
The national capital recorded its hottest day of the season on Monday, with temperatures nearing 44 degrees Celsius in several areas. The Safdarjung observatory, Delhi’s primary weather station, registered a maximum temperature of 43.4 degrees Celsius, the highest recorded this month so far, IANS reported.
According to the IMD, scorching daytime temperatures combined with strong hot winds are likely to worsen discomfort levels across the region between May 19 and May 22.
Rising night-time temperatures are also expected to provide little relief from the prevailing heat conditions, IANS reported.
Temperatures likely to remain above 43 degrees Celsius
The weather department has forecast a maximum temperature of around 44 degrees Celsius on May 19, while the minimum temperature may hover near 28 degrees Celsius.
Heatwave conditions along with strong surface winds are expected during the afternoon and evening hours.
Similar conditions are likely to continue on May 20, with temperatures once again expected to touch 44 degrees Celsius. Hot and dry winds are forecast to sweep across Delhi-NCR throughout the day.
On May 21 and 22, temperatures may dip slightly but are still expected to remain around 43 degrees Celsius, with minimum temperatures staying close to 27 degrees Celsius. The IMD said heatwave conditions are likely to persist during daytime hours, the news agency reported.
Humidity to increase discomfort
Humidity levels are expected to fluctuate between 35 and 50 per cent, adding to the feeling of discomfort and mugginess despite the dry heat.
The weather department has advised residents to avoid direct exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours and step outdoors only if necessary.
Slight relief likely after May 23
According to the IANS, the IMD said weather conditions may begin to improve gradually from May 23 onwards, although skies are expected to remain largely clear.
Health advisory issued
Doctors and health experts have urged children, senior citizens, and people with pre-existing health conditions to take extra precautions during the ongoing heatwave.
Residents have been advised to stay hydrated, drink water frequently, avoid prolonged outdoor exposure, and limit strenuous physical activity to prevent dehydration and heatstroke.
(With IANS inputs)
