At 33.6°C, Mumbai records its hottest August day since 1969; Yellow Alert issued for this week

Mumbai recorded its hottest August day since 1969, with temperatures soaring to 33.6°C on Sunday, surpassing the previous record of 33.5°C set over five decades ago. The sweltering heat, 3.2°C above normal, has left citizens uncomfortable, even during early morning hours that were typically cooler.

However today, parts of Mumbai woke up to cloudy skies with scattered showers and lightning with temperatures hovering around 28.87°C. The forecast predicts a temp range between 26.99°C and 28.98°C, paired with a humidity level of 77%.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributes this temperature spike to the ongoing "break monsoon" phase, where reduced rainfall and prolonged sunshine have driven temperatures up. The Colaba Observatory also reported a high of 32.2°C, which is 2.2°C above average. The city's relative humidity was a stifling 90% at Colaba and 82% at Santacruz, intensifying the discomfort.

Weather experts note that weakened westerly winds and calm conditions have contributed to these unusually high temperatures. However, despite the recent dry spell and forecast of this continuing temperature for the next 2 days, the IMD has issued a Yellow Alert for Wednesday. Experts say that there is a likelihood of thunderstorms, light showers, and gusty winds at isolated places.

From Thursday onwards, IMD predicts light to moderate rains and potential thunderstorms, which could provide some relief. Further, strengthening westerlies might bring increased rainfall and cooler temperatures in the last week of August.