Mumbai: For the second consecutive day, Mumbai’s daytime temperatures hovered near the 40°C mark, with Ram Mandir recording a scorching 39.2°C. Neighbouring Thane followed at around 38°C, while Bandra recorded 36°C, Vidyavihar 35.6°C, Santacruz 35.4°C, Dahisar 35.3°C and Colaba 34.6°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Mumbai operates two primary observatories at Colaba and Santacruz, while the remaining five locations are equipped with automatic weather stations (AWS).On Sunday, the IMD Colaba and Santacruz observatories recorded day temperatures of 34.6°C and 35.4°C, respectively, which were 0.7°C and 1.8°C above normal. The minimum temperatures recorded by the IMD Colaba and Santacruz facilities were 26.7°C and 26.2°C, respectively, which was 0.2°C below normal in case of both the observatories. Relative humidity recorded by the IMD Colaba and Santacruz observatories at 8.30am were 85% and 73%, respectively, and at 5.30pm, 72% and 60%, respectively.The all-time highest daytime temperature recorded in the month of May by the IMD Santacruz observatory was 41°C on May 12, 1979, and by the IMD Colaba observatory was 39.7°C on May 24, 1972.A special bulletin issued by IMD on May 10 urged citizens to avoid prolonged exposure to heat and drink sufficient water even when not feeling thirsty to prevent dehydration. Citizens were also advised to wear light-coloured, loose-fitting cotton clothing and to protect the head by using a wet cloth, hat or umbrella while stepping out during peak hours. Outdoor workers were cautioned against direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours, and urged to schedule strenuous tasks for cooler parts of the day. The bulletin also recommended to increase the frequency and duration of rest breaks during outdoor activities. It also advised people to remain alert to signs of heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke, heat rash or heat cramps, including weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, excessive sweating or seizures, and seek immediate medical attention if feeling faint or unwell.
