Mumbai faces intense heat as monsoon withdraws early

Mumbai is experiencing an early withdrawal of the southwest monsoon, leading to a significant rise in temperatures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicates the monsoon is departing approximately five days earlier than usual. This shift has resulted in intense heat and high humidity, with Colaba recording a maximum temperature of 37.4°C, the highest October temperature in the area in 13 years.

According to IMD scientist Sushma Nair, the temperature spike is linked to the transition of wind patterns from westerlies to easterlies, which delays the cooling sea breeze, and the presence of an anti-cyclone near the city. Temperatures in Mumbai, Thane, and Raigadh are expected to remain between 35°C and 37°C over the coming days.

The lack of rainfall is also raising concerns regarding air quality. Without rain to wash away dust and pollutants, and with increased construction activity, pollution levels are rising. In response, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) plans to identify and monitor at least 10 pollution hotspots within each administrative ward to manage the deteriorating air quality.