March, the first month of the pre-monsoon summer, in
Mumbai, is still a tropical month, with average temperature ranging between min 21°C (69.8°F) and max 32.5°C (90.5°F).
An excellent water temperature of 26.3°C (79.3°F) and 0.2mm (0.01") of accumulated rainfall makes March a prime for swimming and other water activities.
Temperature
In March, the average high-temperature in Mumbai,
India, is almost the same as in
February - a still hot 32.5°C (90.5°F). In Mumbai, India,, the average low-temperature is 21°C (69.8°F).
Heat index
The average heat index is calculated to be a blistering 41.5°C (106.7°F). Take extra precautions, as heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible. Sustained activity may result in heatstroke.
Take into consideration that the heat index values are calculated for shade and light wind conditions. With exposure to direct sunlight, the heat index may be increased by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature', 'apparent temperature', 'feels like', or 'real feel', is an index that combines air temperature and relative humidity to determine the human-perceived temperature equivalent. This effect is individual, with diverse people perceiving weather differently for numerous reasons (clothing, metabolic differences, pregnancy), and activity. Bear in mind that direct sunshine exposure increases weather impact, and may raise heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly important for children. Children are often less aware of the need to rest and re-hydrate. Thirst is a late sign of dehydration - it is vital to remain hydrated, particularly during prolonged physical activities.
The human body cools itself through perspiration, as excessive warmth is removed from the body through sweat evaporation. A higher relative humidity affects normal body cooling by reducing the evaporation rate, subsequently lowering the rate at which the body cools and increasing the perception of heat. When heat gain surpasses the level the body can shed, body temperature begins to increase, and consequently, overheating and dehydration can occur, with varying severity.
Humidity
In Mumbai, the average relative humidity is 69%.
Rainfall
The month with the least rainfall is March when 0.2mm (0.01") of precipitation is typically aggregated.
Sea temperature
In March, the average sea temperature is 26.3°C (79.3°F).
Note: Water temperature between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F) is regarded as very warm and enjoyable by all. With these temperatures, water activities are pleasurable, without feeling uncomfortable for prolonged periods.
Daylight
In Mumbai, the average length of the day is 12h.
Sunshine
In Mumbai, the average sunshine in March is 8.8h.
UV index
March through
September, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index reading of 11, and higher, represents an extreme health hazard from unprotected exposure to the Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: In March, the average maximum UV index of 12 translate into the following recommendations:
Take all required precautions, as unprotected skin and eyes can burn in minutes. The Sun's UV radiation is most powerful between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. To the extent possible, limit exposure to the direct sun during these hours. A wide-brim hat offers excellent sun protection for eyes, ears, face, and neck. Sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection significantly reduce eye damage from sun exposure. Tightly woven, loose-fitting clothes provide additional protection from the Sun. A broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30+ should be liberally applied and re-applied every two hours, and immediately after an outdoor workout or a swim. Caution! The reflection of sand and water significantly increases the intensity of the Sun's UV radiation.