Mumbai Set for a Cool Christmas as IMD Forecasts Minimum Temperatures Around 14°C

Mumbai is preparing for a refreshing Christmas this year as the city experiences a notable drop in temperatures, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). After enduring daytime highs nearing 34°C over the weekend, residents woke up to a pleasant chill on Monday, with minimum temperatures dipping below seasonal norms. The suburban Santacruz station recorded a minimum of 15.2°C, over two degrees lower than usual, while the coastal Colaba observatory noted 20.3°C.

The sudden drop follows a brief spell of unseasonably warm weather, during which Mumbai was the hottest city in Maharashtra on Sunday. IMD forecasts suggest that the cool spell will continue, with minimum temperatures likely ranging between 14°C and 15°C until at least December 24. This is expected to bring a welcome relief for Mumbaikars, especially those accustomed to the city’s typically humid winter mornings.

Meteorologists have pointed to the influx of dry, cold northerly winds from the northern regions of India as the primary reason behind this temperature dip. While the mornings and nights are set to remain chilly, daytime temperatures are expected to hover around 32°C, providing a comfortable balance of warmth and coolness.

The IMD has also predicted a possibility of fog and mist in the coming days, which may slightly reduce visibility across the city. Commuters are advised to exercise caution, particularly in the early morning hours. However, this cool spell is expected to be short-lived, with temperatures projected to rise gradually after Christmas, and minimums climbing above 18°C in the subsequent days. For historical context, the coldest December temperature in Mumbai was recorded at 10.6°C in 1949, emphasizing the seasonal variability the city can experience.

While Mumbai is currently among the coolest cities in the Konkan region, the lowest temperatures in Maharashtra on Monday were reported in Ahmednagar, where the mercury fell to 7.3°C. The wider state continues to experience typical winter variations, with inland areas feeling colder compared to coastal regions.

The cool weather, however, has had an impact on the city’s air quality. From a satisfactory rating on Sunday, Mumbai’s Air Quality Index (AQI) rose to 104 on Monday morning. Sion recorded the highest pollution levels with an AQI of 127, closely followed by Bandra Kurla Complex at 125. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data indicates that particulate matter (PM10) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) are the major contributors to the current pollution levels. Residents, especially those with respiratory conditions, are advised to take necessary precautions during the morning hours when pollution peaks in combination with foggy conditions.

In summary, Mumbai residents can look forward to a pleasant, cool Christmas morning, with temperatures hovering around 14°C. While the chilly mornings and occasional fog may pose minor inconveniences, the respite from recent unseasonable heat will likely be welcomed across the city. This winter spell highlights the city’s seasonal shifts, from humid warmth to crisp, cooler mornings, and reminds citizens to stay prepared for sudden weather changes typical of the Mumbai winter.