Mumbai Struggles with Cold Weather and Worsening Air Quality

Mumbai Struggles with Cold Weather and Worsening Air Quality

Mumbaikars experienced a noticeable chill over the weekend, with temperatures dipping below normal levels as dry conditions continue to dominate the city. On Sunday, the minimum temperature in the island city dropped by 2°C compared to the previous day, while maximum temperatures also remained below the usual seasonal average.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the Santacruz observatory recorded a minimum temperature of 19.1°C, down from 21°C on Saturday, while Colaba saw a minimum temperature of 21.2°C. By Sunday evening, maximum temperatures were recorded at 31.3°C in Santacruz and 28.2°C in Colaba, both two degrees below the usual norm for this time of year. Despite mostly clear skies throughout the day, the city continued to grapple with a poor Air Quality Index (AQI), with several areas registering an AQI above 200, indicating a ‘poor’ to ‘unhealthy’ air quality. Areas such as Byculla (297), Siddharth Nagar-Worli (272), Malad West (248), Borivali East (244), Kherwadi-Bandra East (216), and Mazgaon (215) reported some of the highest AQI readings, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Mumbai has been dealing with a persistent deterioration in air quality for the past two weeks, primarily due to dry weather and ongoing post-monsoon construction activities. The IMD noted that the absence of humidity prevents dust particles from settling on the ground, causing them to linger in the air, thereby exacerbating pollution levels. Looking ahead, the IMD’s weekly weather report predicts that Mumbai’s weather will remain dry, with mostly clear skies throughout the week. As the new year approaches, the city is expected to experience a further dip in temperatures. By January 3, 2024, Santacruz is forecast to see a minimum temperature of 16°C, while Colaba is expected to record a minimum of 17°C by January 4, 2024. Residents are advised to take precautions, especially those in areas with poor air quality, as conditions are expected to remain challenging in the coming days.