Mumbai Weather Update: BMC Issues Heatwave Advisory, Essential Dos and Don’ts for Citizens

Mumbai– With rising temperatures and an increasing risk of heatstroke, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued an advisory urging citizens to take the necessary precautions. The civic administration stated that to follow these guidelines, which have been framed in accordance with the National Disaster Management Authority's directives.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), an intense heatwave is expected to persist in Mumbai and parts of Maharashtra until March 11, with similar conditions likely to recur in March and April. In response, BMC has released a set of guidelines to help residents protect themselves from extreme heat.

The advisory stressed staying hydrated, wearing light cotton clothing, avoiding direct sun exposure, and refraining from consuming alcohol, tea, and carbonated drinks that may cause dehydration. Citizens are also advised to keep their homes cool, carry water while traveling, and avoid leaving children or pets inside parked vehicles.

For those experiencing heat-related symptoms, BMC has recommended immediate medical attention and the use of ORS, lemon water, buttermilk, and coconut water to stay hydrated. Special instructions have been issued for treating heatstroke victims, including moving them to a cool place, keeping them hydrated, and seeking urgent medical assistance.

BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani and Additional Commissioner (Eastern Suburbs) Dr. Amit Saini have directed officials to implement necessary measures to mitigate heatwave effects and ensure public safety.

BMC has urged all citizens to follow the issued guidelines to prevent heatstroke-related illnesses and fatalities.

Precautionary Measures to Reduce the Impact of Heatwaves and Prevent Severe Illness or Fatalities Due to Heatstroke:

1. Drink sufficient water even if you do not feel thirsty.
2. Wear light, loose-fitting, light-colored, breathable cotton clothes. When going out in the sun, use protective sunglasses, an umbrella or cap, and appropriate footwear.
3. Carry water while traveling.
4. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated drinks as they can cause dehydration.
5. Avoid high-protein foods and stale food.
6. If working outdoors, use a cap or an umbrella. If possible, cover your head and face with a large cotton cloth.
7. Use a damp cloth on your head, neck, face, and limbs.
8. Do not leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
9. If you feel weak or unwell, seek medical help immediately.
10. Consume ORS, buttermilk, lemon water, coconut water, rice water (torani), and other homemade hydrating drinks regularly.
11. Keep animals in shaded areas and provide them with plenty of water.
12. Keep your home cool by using curtains, shutters, or sunshades. Keep windows open at night.
13. Use fans, wet clothes, and take frequent cool baths.

Guidelines for Treating a Heatstroke Victim:

1. Move the affected person to a cool, shaded area. Wipe them with a damp cloth or repeatedly pour normal-temperature water over them, especially on the head. The primary goal is to lower body temperature.
2. Give them ORS, lemon juice, torani, or any other hydrating drink to restore the body's fluid balance.
3. Immediately take the affected person to the nearest healthcare center. Heatstroke can be life-threatening, so hospital admission is crucial.

The BMC once again urges all citizens to follow these precautionary measures and guidelines to prevent heatstroke.