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Mumbaikars woke up to a relatively pleasant Friday morning as the city continued to witness hot and humid conditions typical of late April. 

Friday’s weather forecast

IMD has forecast mainly clear skies over Mumbai and its suburbs for the next 48 hours. The city could witness isolated rain or thundershowers towards the afternoon or evening, the weather bureau said.

Hot and humid conditions are expected to prevail, with daytime maximum temperatures likely to touch 36 degrees Celsius in Island City. The suburbs may see slightly higher readings, going up to 38 degrees Celsius. 

Air quality index

The air quality index (AQI) in Mumbai currently stands at 88, which falls in the satisfactory category. On Thursday, the AQI was slightly better at 76.

While this is not in the `poor` or `very poor` range, sensitive groups such as children, elderly citizens, and residents with respiratory conditions may experience minor discomfort.

Impact on daily life

With temperatures climbing during the day, IMD has appealed to office-goers, outdoor workers, and students to stay hydrated and avoid direct sun exposure between noon and 4 pm. Traffic police and BMC staff working in the open are particularly vulnerable to heat stress. Commuters using local trains and buses should carry water bottles and wear light, breathable clothing, the weather bureau advised.

Doctors recommend using sunscreen, wearing sunglasses, and taking frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Parents are advised to ensure children drink enough fluids and avoid strenuous outdoor sports during peak heat hours.

Vidarbha sizzles at 44 degrees Celsius

Maharashtra is witnessing a spell of intense heat, with Vidarbha recording temperatures as high as 44 degrees Celsius on Thursday, while the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted thunderstorms, lightning, and light rainfall in parts of the state.

Amravati: 44.4 degrees Celsius (highest in Maharashtra)

Akola: 44.3 degrees Celsius

Wardha: 44.0 degrees Celsius

Nagpur: 43.2 degrees Celsius

Coastal areas relatively cooler

The Konkan region, including Mumbai, recorded comparatively lower temperatures:

Mumbai: 33.2 degrees Celsius / 25.6 degrees Celsius

Santacruz: 35.9 degrees Celsius / 24.4 degrees Celsius

Alibag: 33.4 degrees Celsius / 29.0 degrees Celsius

Ratnagiri: 36.0 degrees Celsius / 25.8 degrees Celsius.