Mumbai, the city known for its perpetually mild climate, is preparing for a significant drop in temperature as a fresh cold spell sets in. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted a sharp decline, predicting minimum temperatures to plunge to an unusual 13 degrees Celsius by the end of the week.
This cooling trend, attributed primarily to the influx of cool northerly winds following a recent Western Disturbance, marks a considerable change from the city's typically warmer winter nights. The Santacruz observatory, which recorded a minimum of 16.5°C on Tuesday morning (already 2.3°C below normal), expects the mercury to keep falling, peaking at the 13°C mark between Thursday and Friday.
The Science Behind the Chill
Meteorologists explain that the dry northerly winds are key to this intense cool-down. These dry winds lead to lower humidity levels, and clearer night skies allow the ground to radiate heat faster, resulting in a more pronounced drop in temperature after sunset. While maximum daytime temperatures are expected to hover around the 29°C to 32°C range, Mumbaikars are advised to prepare for significantly cold mornings and nights.
Health and Safety Advisory
The sudden shift in weather necessitates caution, especially for vulnerable populations. Medical experts warn that the cold spell often correlates with a rise in respiratory issues like asthma and COPD, as well as a higher risk of cardiac events like heart attacks, as low temperatures can constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure.
- Layer Up: Residents should wear multiple layers of warm clothing, especially during early mornings and late nights.
- Stay Hydrated: Continue to drink warm fluids to maintain body temperature and immunity.
- Health Check: Individuals with pre-existing heart or respiratory conditions should take extra precautions and keep necessary medications handy.
- Air Quality: With prevailing cold and sometimes calm conditions, air quality often dips. It is advisable to monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) and use masks in congested, high-traffic areas if necessary.
Mumbaikars are excited about the genuine winter experience, but the IMD urges everyone to be prepared and take measures to stay safe and warm as the city welcomes one of its coldest spells of the season.
