With Mumbai currently reeling under hot weather conditions and the October heat affecting citizens, experts have advised Mumbaikars about staying safe from developing health issues during the rising temperatures and hot and humid weather.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), daytime temperatures are expected to stay between 32 degrees Celsius and 34 degrees Celsius throughout the month, while morning temperatures will range from 22 degrees Celsius to 26 degrees Celsius.
Senior IMD official Shubhangi Bhute told mid-day, “This heat is seasonal and not extreme, and there are no signs of a heatwave as of now. She advised people to avoid going outdoors between 12 pm and 4 pm, when the sun is at its strongest. A slight drop in temperature is expected between 31 October and 6 November, which could bring some relief.”
Compared to October 2024, this year’s October will be relatively normal and not excessively hot, although it will be a dry month, Bhute said. Meanwhile, as the monsoon withdraws, air pollution levels are on the rise.
IMD experts say air quality in October is usually worse compared to other months because of dry weather, low wind speeds, and poor dispersion of pollutants. It leads to a hazy atmosphere, especially in the mornings and evenings. The main pollutants include PM2.5 and PM10, which can affect breathing and health, especially in sensitive groups like children and the elderly.
Doctors across Mumbai have reported an increase in heat-related illnesses. People are suffering from dehydration, heatstroke, fatigue, and breathing issues, according to Dr Swarup Swaraj Pal, Chief CVTS and Transplant Surgeon at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel.
Dr Pal warned that children, elderly people, and those with heart, kidney or lung problems are at higher risk during this season. According to Dr Pal, there has also been a significant rise in cases of urinary tract infections, menstrual irregularities, low blood pressure, vaginal infections, and skin-related conditions like heat rashes, fungal infections, and dryness. He highlighted that, compared to the same period last year, more women are reporting dizziness, fatigue, and intensified premenstrual symptoms, largely attributed to dehydration and extended outdoor exposure.
Women, in particular, are showing increased premenstrual symptoms, dizziness, and fatigue – largely due to dehydration and long exposure to the sun, Dr Pal told mid-day.
Dr Pal urged Mumbaikars to stay alert for early signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which may include dizziness or fainting, nausea, rapid heartbeat, headaches, muscle cramps, and either excessive sweating or an unusual lack of it. He pointed out that persistent fatigue, especially if it doesn’t improve with rest, could be a warning sign of dehydration or heat exhaustion and should not be ignored.
Experts suggest how to stay safe during current hot weather in Mumbai
Dr Pal shared useful tips for staying healthy during the October heat-
-Drink at least 2 litres of water every day
-Eat cooling foods like coconut water, cucumber, and watermelon
-Avoid spicy or oily food
-Wear light cotton clothes
-Rest well and stay in ventilated areas
-Apply sunscreen and avoid outdoor activity between 12 pm and 4 pm
-Take frequent breaks in the shade if working outside
-Avoid wearing heavy clothes that can trap sweat and heat
-Watch out for early signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, nausea, headaches, or rapid heartbeat
Dr Pal said, “The period from late September to early November is usually the most uncomfortable, with high humidity, unexpected heatwaves, and slow monsoon withdrawal could make people feel drained and uneasiness.”
