Mumbai's high-rise buildings directly proportional to rising city temperatures: IMD

As Mumbai prepares for another heatwave this weekend, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns that the proliferation of high-rise buildings in the city is exacerbating heat retention. Sunil Kamble, Head of IMD Mumbai, explained that during periods of above-normal temperatures, such as last week, heat lingers longer due to Mumbai's vertical growth constrained by coastal geography.

While Mumbai experiences minimal variations in day temperatures, rainfall patterns show significant disparities, especially during the monsoon season. With daytime temperatures nearing 40°C last week, severe heatwave conditions were declared in certain areas. IMD forecasts hot and humid weather in isolated pockets from April 25 to April 27, with isolated heatwave conditions predicted for April 28 in Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad. Kamble also addressed the rise of independent forecasters, emphasising IMD's accountability and scientific approach to weather prediction.