Mumbai, known for its moderate climate, is set to experience an unusual weather pattern with a significant temperature difference of 16 degrees Celsius between daytime highs and nighttime lows. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts warm afternoons and chilly nights for the upcoming week, raising concerns about potential health impacts.
According to the IMD, Mumbai’s minimum temperature is expected to plummet to 16 degrees Celsius, while the maximum daytime temperature will reach 35 degrees Celsius, creating a noteworthy contrast that is likely to persist throughout the week.
As of today, the city is expected to record a minimum temperature of 19 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 34 degrees Celsius. Tomorrow, Mumbaikars can anticipate a minimum temperature of 20 degrees Celsius, with the mercury soaring to a maximum of 35 degrees Celsius.
On January 31, the weather forecast indicates a minimum temperature of 19 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 33 degrees Celsius. This temperature range is expected to continue for the initial days of February, contributing to the unusual weather phenomenon.
Doctors Advise ‘Mumbaikars’ Amidst Temperature Fluctuations:
Health professionals are urging caution among the residents of Mumbai as the drastic temperature difference may pose health risks. Dr. Kapil Sagila from Bombay Hospital emphasizes the heightened vulnerability to viral infections and recommends avoiding sitting in the cold immediately after exposure to sunlight. Additionally, he advises caution with refrigerated food and suggests that individuals allergic to pollution wear masks.
Dr. Neeraj Tulara, an infectious disease specialist at Hiranandani Hospital, stresses that when the temperature difference exceeds 10 degrees Celsius, the risk of viral infections such as cold and cough escalates. Wearing masks, particularly during the morning hours when pollution levels are high, is strongly recommended.
Understanding the Temperature Anomaly:
Sunil Kamble of IMD Mumbai attributes the temperature anomaly to a change in wind patterns caused by an anti-cyclonic development. South-easterly winds resulting from this development are causing a rise in mercury levels. Kamble predicts that this change in wind direction will persist until at least the beginning of February, maintaining maximum temperatures between 34 and 35 degrees Celsius.
