Maharashtra is set for an unusually cold spell this week, with the national weather agency issuing a Yellow alert for multiple interior districts following a marked fall in temperatures. While Mumbai and the neighbouring metropolitan belt are not under any weather warning, the region is expected to remain cooler than usual as winter conditions strengthen across the state.
According to early morning data from the city’s observatory, Mumbai began the week on a noticeably chilly note, with the minimum temperature dipping below 19°C. Weather officials noted that the reading was around two degrees lower than seasonal norms. Daytime temperatures, however, remain relatively steady for now. Experts at the weather bureau stated that the city may witness a marginal rise in temperature later in the week owing to an expected shift in wind patterns. A scientist from the weather agency explained that while Mumbai’s minimum temperature may hover between 17°C and 18°C until mid-week, interior regions of Maharashtra will experience far sharper drops. Large parts of Madhya Maharashtra and some northern districts in Vidarbha are forecast to see temperatures slipping below 10°C — well within the threshold for cold wave conditions as per national meteorological standards.
The Yellow alert issued for November 17 and 18 covers districts such as Pune, Nashik, Dhule, Jalgaon, Satara, Yavatmal, Bhandara and others. Officials emphasised that while these districts may not witness extreme weather events, the sudden fall in night temperatures requires precautionary measures, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, outdoor workers, and communities with limited access to insulating housing. Urban planners note that colder spells increasingly highlight the climate variability experienced across Indian cities. They add that low temperatures, once largely associated with northern India, are becoming more common in parts of Maharashtra owing to shifting weather systems. This underlines the importance of strengthening urban housing and public health infrastructure to ensure climate resilience—key elements in building equitable and sustainable cities.
In Mumbai, residents have already reported noticeably cooler mornings, prompting many to adjust their routines, especially those who commute early. While the city is not expected to face severe cold, planners suggest that the civic administration could consider long-term measures such as improving housing insulation and designing public spaces that respond better to temperature fluctuations throughout the year. For interior districts, officials have urged residents to take precautions, including limiting exposure during early morning hours and ensuring adequate protection for children and older adults. They also highlighted the need for local bodies to stay prepared for potential health concerns that could arise due to the dip in temperature.
As winter conditions deepen across the state, experts believe this weather cycle offers a reminder of the broader climatic shifts underway, reinforcing the need for cities to adopt adaptive, climate-responsive strategies that protect all residents.
Also Read: Air India Restarts Delhi–China Flights In February 2026, Mumbai–Shanghai Services Later
