Mumbai’s weather has taken an unpredictable turn, shifting dramatically from heatwave conditions to a refreshing cool breeze. After enduring an unusually hot first week of December, with temperatures soaring, Mumbaikars woke up on Sunday to a welcome change, as the temperature dropped to 17°C—a noticeable eight-degree drop in just three days.
This sudden shift has been a topic of discussion among residents and meteorologists alike. The minimum temperature recorded on Sunday morning was a much-needed respite from the heat, offering a sharp contrast to the unusually high temperatures earlier in the week. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that the city is set to experience a gradual cooling trend, with the upcoming week expected to maintain pleasant weather. As per the IMD’s weather report, the maximum and minimum temperatures for December 10 are forecasted to reach 32°C and 16°C respectively, with mostly clear skies throughout the week. “The average temperature last week was about 25°C, but we expect it to dip to 18-19°C this week,” said Sunil Kamble, IMD Mumbai’s Chief.
The contrast in temperatures has been particularly striking. Mid-November had witnessed one of the coldest mornings of the year, with temperatures falling to 15-16°C, while the early days of December were marked by a spike in temperatures, reaching some of the hottest readings for this time of the year. The fluctuating temperatures have left residents both confused and exhilarated. Kamble explained that the fluctuations are primarily influenced by the strength of the northerly winds. “The ups and downs in temperatures will continue until the end of January, as the winter season is directly impacted by wind patterns,” he explained. This cyclical variation has added a layer of unpredictability to Mumbai’s otherwise tropical climate, leading to frequent discussions on social media about the changing weather.
Many Mumbaikars took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to share their relief and joy as the temperature dipped. “Feels great to have pleasant weather again in Mumbai,” posted Kaushal Mande, echoing the sentiments of many who have been eagerly awaiting the cooler days of winter. The city’s residents are undoubtedly embracing this brief respite, making the most of the clear skies and cool breeze.
