Heatwave in February: Mumbai's Temperature Hits the Second-Highest in Two Years, Experts Warn of Further Rise

Mumbai is no stranger to heat waves, but the past few days have been exceptionally warm, with the maximum temperature recorded at 37.3 degrees Celsius on Monday, the second-highest in February since 2019. The high day temperatures in February are unusual, and experts are attributing this to the lack of a strong and effective western disturbance, and the prevalence of an easterly breeze during the day.

The rise in temperatures is not limited to Mumbai alone. Central and northern India are also witnessing high temperatures, indicating that the impact is much more significant than anticipated. The wind pattern across Maharashtra favours lower level, easterly or north-easterly winds, which causes a rise in maximum temperatures. As a result, the state as a whole is currently experiencing rainfall and rising temperatures.

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The eastern section of the state, which includes Vidarbha and Marathwada, is where the increase in mercury level is most noticeable. The state's economy may suffer if the wheat crop is negatively impacted by the combination of extreme heat and diminishing rainfall. The second fortnight of February routinely recorded temperatures going up to 38 and 39 degrees Celsius, making it the warmest February in the last ten years.

The sea wind, which usually arrives by noon, is reportedly being delayed until as late as 2 PM, according to Mahesh Palawat, vice-president of Skymet Weather. He also cautioned that if the sea wind is delayed in the next few days, daytime temperatures could reach the 38-39 degree range. The easterly breeze, which is unusual for this time of year, was cited as the cause of the temperature increase.

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Temperatures have remained over the 35 degree Celsius threshold because there hasn't been any sea breeze during the day. The minimum temperatures on Tuesday morning in Colaba and Santacruz were a delightful 21.2 and 19 degrees Celsius, compared to the maximum temperatures of 37.1 and 37.3 degrees Celsius on Monday. Although there was dry or oppressive heat, the level of comfort was not too awful due to the comparatively low humidity.

According to an IMD official, the transition period from winter to summer may see numerous temperature increases. The rise in temperatures is concerning for the residents of Mumbai and the state of Maharashtra.