Mumbai Monsoon Retreats Early, Heatwaves Grip City

Mumbai formally bid farewell to the South-West monsoon on October 3, 2026, marking the second earliest withdrawal of the season this century. This transition has brought hotter and drier conditions to the city, with daytime temperatures consistently exceeding normal ranges. Santacruz recorded a high of 37.4°C on Saturday, while Colaba registered 36.5°C.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Sunday and Monday, predicting hot and humid conditions with maximum temperatures between 36 and 37 degrees Celsius. The monsoon's pattern this year was unusual, with a deficit in June, a very wet July, and sharp declines in August and September.

As the focus shifts from flooding to heat and water security, concerns are amplified by the expected strengthening of El Niño in the coming months. This could lead to warmer conditions and a warmer winter. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is factoring evaporation rates into its water planning, as the existing water stock in the seven lakes is projected to last until May 17, 2027, though rising temperatures may advance this date. Consequently, a 10% water cut remains in effect despite lake levels nearing full capacity.