Mumbai: Mumbai witnessed an intense spell of October heat on Friday, with Colaba recording a maximum temperature of 37.4°C, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data.

The temperature was 5.6°C above normal and became the highest October maximum recorded at the Colaba observatory since at least 2013. The combination of high temperatures and humidity made conditions uncomfortable across Mumbai.

Mumbai's Santacruz weather station, which is considered the city's main reference station, recorded a maximum temperature of 36.9°C on Friday. This was 4.6°C above normal.

Colaba also recorded a minimum temperature of 27.5°C at 5:30 am, around 2.2°C above normal. Santacruz, meanwhile, recorded a minimum of 25.7°C, which was closer to the usual level.

The highest October temperature ever recorded at Colaba was 39.5°C on October 22, 1968.

Why Is Mumbai So Hot In October?

According to IMD senior scientist Sushma Nair, the unusual heat is linked to the ongoing withdrawal of the southwest monsoon from Mumbai.

This period marks a transition in wind patterns. As the monsoon withdraws, winds can shift from westerly to easterly. This change can affect the regular sea breeze that normally helps cool Mumbai during the day.

Nair also said that an anti-cyclone near Mumbai contributed to the rise in temperatures.

The IMD expects the monsoon to withdraw from Mumbai within a day or two, after which weather conditions are likely to gradually change.

Mumbai May Remain Hot For 2-3 Days

Mumbai is likely to remain hot and humid for the next two to three days, with daytime temperatures expected to stay between 35°C and 37°C.

On Saturday, the city is expected to see generally clear skies, with the maximum temperature forecast at around 35°C. The morning minimum temperature was around 29°C.

No rainfall alert has been issued for the coming week, suggesting that widespread heavy rain is unlikely across Mumbai.

Mumbai's AQI Remains Moderate

Meanwhile, Mumbai's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 72, placing the city in the 'Moderate' category.

The sudden October heat comes after a similar temperature rise last year. On October 8, 2024, Santacruz had recorded a maximum temperature of 36.5°C.

For now, Mumbai residents can expect hot and humid conditions, particularly during the afternoon, as the city moves through the final phase of the southwest monsoon withdrawal.