Mumbai recorded its warmest day of the year on Wednesday, as the Santacruz observatory logged a maximum temperature of 38.7°C. This reading represents a significant departure from the seasonal norm, standing 5.7°C above the average for early March.
While the suburban regions experienced the peak of the heat, the Colaba observatory in south Mumbai recorded a maximum of 35.7°C. Although temperatures were high, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) did not officially declare a heatwave, noting that the technical criteria require such levels to be sustained for two consecutive days.
Weather officials attributed the spike to an anticyclonic circulation over the region, which facilitated dry north-easterly land breezes. These land winds effectively blocked the cooler sea breeze that typically moderates Mumbai’s afternoon temperatures, leading to the rapid increase in heat.
Data indicates this is the earliest the mercury has crossed the 38-degree threshold in March in at least ten years. Historically, such sharp temperature increases in the city have generally been recorded only after the second week of the month.
A yellow alert remains active for neighbouring Thane, Palghar, and Raigad districts, though conditions in Mumbai are expected to stabilize slightly by Friday. Health authorities have advised residents to remain hydrated and limit outdoor activity during peak hours as the city faces an aggressive start to the summer season.
