Mumbai is bracing for a spell of unstable weather as the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issues a yellow alert for 13 August, warning of thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching 30–40 kmph. The advisory comes during a lull in monsoon activity that has left water reserves in the city’s lakes below optimal capacity for over two weeks.
According to IMD forecasts, Mumbai and adjoining districts of Thane, Palghar and Raigad will see light to moderate showers in isolated areas, with generally cloudy skies prevailing over the next 48 hours. Daytime temperatures are expected to hover around 31°C, with night-time lows of 25°C. While the rainfall may offer some respite from humid conditions, officials remain concerned about the city’s water stock. As of 10 August, the seven reservoirs supplying water to Mumbai were at 89.02% capacity, translating to 12.88 lakh million litres. This figure has remained stagnant since late July, with levels at 89.70% on 27 July and 89.09% on 3 August. The full combined capacity of these lakes stands at 14.47 lakh million litres. The Upper Vaitarna reservoir is currently at 83.20% capacity, Middle Vaitarna at 94.47%, Modak Sagar at 97.24%, Bhatsa at 86.71%, Tansa at 97.92%, Tulsi at 85.22% and Vihar at 74.71%.
The city has so far received 49% of its average annual rainfall this year, with 996 mm recorded at the Colaba observatory and 1,363 mm at Santacruz. This is nearly 1,000 mm less than last year’s figures for the same date. The IMD’s long-range forecast for the second half of the southwest monsoon predicts below-normal to normal rainfall in August, with a possible revival in September. Environmental experts have warned that continued low rainfall could impact sustainable water management and increase reliance on pumping from distant sources, adding to the city’s carbon footprint. The situation underscores the need for climate-resilient infrastructure, water conservation measures and equitable distribution to reduce stress during prolonged dry spells.
Officials stress that while the yellow alert indicates potential severe weather, it should also be seen as an opportunity to replenish reservoirs. However, with no signs of heavy rainfall on the horizon until next month, civic authorities are monitoring consumption patterns and urging citizens to use water judiciously. The coming days will be critical in determining whether the city’s water supply remains secure until the end of the monsoon season. For now, Mumbai watches the skies in cautious anticipation.
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