- Mumbai records 38 degrees C, highest October temperature since 2015.
- Early monsoon withdrawal, anticyclonic system behind unusual heat.
- Mild winter forecast: cooler mornings, warm afternoons, no long cold.
Mumbai has been experiencing unusually high temperatures in October, even as several other states have started to feel the winter chill. The scorching heat has raised an important question: Why is Mumbai still so hot in October?
Mumbai has been experiencing hot and humid weather since the beginning of the month. On October 11, the city recorded a maximum temperature of 38 degrees C, its highest October temperature since 2015, when the mercury reached 38.6 degrees C on October 17.
A strong El Niño could be one of the reasons behind the rise in temperatures. However, it would be too early to blame El Niño alone for the unusual heat.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heatwave warnings for Mumbai and nearby districts, including Thane and Palghar, due to the high temperatures.
According to meteorologists, an anticyclonic system over southwest Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat has brought warm, dry winds towards Mumbai, as reported by The Indian Express.
Westerly and northwesterly winds have also delayed the arrival of the sea breeze, which usually brings relief from the heat. In addition, clear skies have allowed more sunlight to reach the city, making temperatures rise further.
Mumbai usually experiences hot weather in October as the southwest monsoon withdraws. This year, the monsoon withdrew from the city earlier than usual, on October 3, leaving Mumbai exposed to the heat sooner. The usual withdrawal period is around October 10–11.
Will Mumbai Finally Experience a Proper Winter This Year?
After experiencing temperatures as high as 38 degrees C this month, many people are wondering whether Mumbai will have a proper winter this year.
According to a seasonal forecast by CycloCast Weather India, mornings in December and January may be cooler, but afternoons could remain warm. Widespread winter rain is unlikely, although a few local showers cannot be ruled out.
The current forecast does not suggest that Mumbai will see a sudden spell of consistently cool weather. Rainfall predictions for parts of Maharashtra remain uncertain, and weather models do not show any widespread rain in Mumbai or Pune.
Overall, Mumbai is likely to experience a mild winter, with cooler mornings and warm afternoons in December and January.
The weather may bring some relief from the current heat. However, afternoon temperatures could still reach 30 degrees C or higher, so the city is unlikely to experience a long spell of cold weather.