Mumbai Braces for Stormy Skies as Unseasonal Rains Prompt Orange Alert
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted a shift in Mumbai’s weather, predicting partly cloudy skies and thunderstorms for Tuesday, April 2. This unexpected turn comes as temperatures climb, raising concerns among residents and officials alike. According to the IMD, the city woke up to a warm Monday morning with a temperature of 31°C at 9 a.m., accompanied by 46% humidity and light breezy winds at 3 km/h. As the day progresses, meteorologists expect the heat to intensify, setting the stage for rainfall later in the afternoon or evening.
The IMD’s latest update signals broader weather disruptions across Maharashtra, with an orange alert issued for 13 districts, including parts of western Maharashtra, Marathwada, and Vidarbha. This warning highlights the likelihood of thunderstorms, lightning, and squalls, following unseasonal showers that have already doused areas like Chembur, Matunga, and Wadala. On Monday, the Colaba observatory recorded a high of 33.5°C, while Santacruz hit 37.7°C, underscoring the unusual warmth for this time of year. A yellow alert remains in place for most of the state, excluding Solapur, as authorities monitor the evolving conditions.
Looking ahead, the IMD predicts that Mumbai will see partly cloudy skies again on Wednesday, April 3, with temperatures ranging from a low of 24°C to a high of 32°C. The sunrise is expected at 6:32 a.m., offering a brief respite before the afternoon weather shifts. Meanwhile, air quality in the city remains a concern, with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reporting a “satisfactory” Air Quality Index (AQI) of 100 in Colaba. Health officials advise those with respiratory conditions to limit outdoor activity and wear masks, noting that AQI levels between 51 and 100 fall within the satisfactory range, while anything below 50 is considered “good.”
These unseasonal rains, though surprising, align with patterns observed in recent years as Mumbai transitions into peak summer. The IMD’s daily weather briefing, shared via YouTube and Facebook, reinforces the forecast, urging residents to stay prepared for sudden changes. As the city navigates this unusual weather event, the combination of heat, humidity, and impending storms keeps Mumbai on alert.
