• Source:JND
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Mumbai Weather: A thick layer of fog and haze has blanketed Mumbai, causing visibility to drop to just 1 km, which is lower than the usual 2-3 km. As of 7 AM on Thursday, the city's Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 137, placing it in the 'moderate' category, according to meteorologists who linked the haze to calm winds and winter-like conditions.

On Wednesday, several areas, including Marine Drive, experienced reduced visibility. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed Byculla as the area with the worst air quality, reporting an AQI of 169. Other affected zones included Mumbai airport at 163, Malad West at 161 and Worli at 157. Notably, only Borivali East, with an AQI of 93, achieved 'Satisfactory' air quality among the city's 22 monitoring stations.

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At the Mumbai airport, scientists from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed visibility of only 1 km. Flight operations were not disrupted, as advisories are issued only when visibility falls below 500 metres.

Key- Factors Behind Mumbai's Low Visibility

Experts shared insights on the situation, explaining that calm winds trap pollutants in the air, leading to both haze and low visibility. When wind speeds are minimal, suspended particulate matter lingers, which is particularly common during winter months. Changes in wind direction often help to disperse these pollutants.

Meteorologists pointed out that low wind speeds play a significant role in creating haze. Pollutants such as ground-level ozone and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) accumulate near the surface due to human activities like waste burning, vehicle emissions and industrial processes. Furthermore, cool winter nights in Mumbai can cause temperature inversions, where cooler air is trapped beneath warmer air, preventing pollutants from dispersing and contributing to smog.

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Mumbai 7- Day Weather Forecast

Meanwhile, Mumbai is set to experience clear skies for the next seven days. From January 15 to 21, the city will have mainly clear skies with temperatures ranging from 13 degrees Celsius to 15 degrees Celsius in the mornings and reaching up to 33 degrees Celsius to 34 degrees Celsius during the day, ensuring pleasant weather conditions.

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