The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast the possibility of heatwaves in Central India, adjoining eastern regions, and northwestern parts of the country during May. Heatwave conditions are expected to be more frequent than average in North Konkan, Vidarbha, and parts of Marathwada.
Mumbai to Feel the Heat with High Humidity
Mumbai is likely to experience heightened discomfort in the first 10 days of May due to elevated humidity levels. The relative humidity has remained above 70%, even though temperatures have stayed near normal. On Wednesday, Santacruz recorded a maximum temperature of 33.9°C, while Colaba logged 34.2°C.
Starting Friday, the city is expected to see a marginal rise in temperature, possibly crossing 35°C, with partly cloudy skies during the afternoon. However, this spike will be short-lived as pre-monsoon showers and thunderstorms are expected from Sunday onward.
Pre-Monsoon Showers from Sunday
According to the IMD, Mumbai and neighbouring districts like Thane, Palghar, and Raigad are likely to experience afternoon or evening showers starting Sunday. The rainy spell is expected to continue into Monday and Tuesday, accompanied by cloudy skies and thunderstorms.
A yellow alert for “thunderstorms with moderate rain and lightning” has been issued for Monday in Thane, Palghar, and Raigad. While the Konkan coast has not been issued any warnings, parts of Vidarbha are under a yellow alert due to anticipated thunderstorms, gusty winds, and lightning.
Why the Sudden Rise in Humidity?
Meteorologists attribute the surge in humidity to a cyclonic circulation near southeastern Rajasthan and a north-south trough extending from southeastern Rajasthan to northern Kerala. This weather system is drawing moisture into the atmosphere, impacting conditions across Maharashtra. As a result, thunderstorms with rain are expected over the next four to five days in Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Marathwada, and Vidarbha.
Unseasonal pre-monsoon showers are not unusual for Mumbai, typically caused by the interaction of easterly and westerly winds. These “trace” showers, usually seen between April and May, precede the monsoon’s arrival around June 11.
