Mumbai Air Quality Improves To Moderate 85 As IMD Issues Yellow Alert
After days of smog and stifling humidity, Mumbai woke up to a refreshing change on Wednesday morning, as overnight showers helped the city breathe easier. The city’s air quality showed visible improvement, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) dropping to a moderate 85 a relief from the unhealthy levels that had gripped Mumbai earlier this month.
However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert, warning that the fair weather may be short-lived as moderate rainfall and thunderstorms could return later in the day.According to IMD officials, the maximum temperature is likely to hover around 33°C, while the minimum could settle near 25°C. The brief spell of rainfall not only cooled the city but also cleared out accumulated dust and suspended pollutants, temporarily improving air quality across most neighbourhoods.
Real-time data from AQI monitors indicated that several locations reported air in the “moderate” category, with visibility and air freshness improving noticeably. Wadala Truck Terminal, however, recorded the poorest air with an AQI of 207, classified as “unhealthy.” Colaba (98), Sion (92), Jogeshwari (95), and Bandra (90) remained within the moderate range, while Parel-Bhoiwada (60), Kandivali East (60), Mulund West (67), and Mankhurd (67) experienced significantly cleaner air.
Environmental experts attribute this short-term improvement to the combination of rainfall, wind activity, and reduced vehicular emissions overnight. “Rain is nature’s most effective air purifier,” said an environmental scientist. “It washes away pollutants, cools the surface, and restores some balance to the atmosphere. However, unless sustained clean practices follow, this effect will fade within a few days.”
IMD’s yellow alert remains in force for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and Raigad districts until October 29. The warning highlights the possibility of isolated heavy showers, gusty winds, and thunderstorm activity. Weather officials added that such sporadic rainfall could continue to influence air quality levels across the region, maintaining cleaner air through the week if wind circulation remains favourable.
For now, Mumbaikars are enjoying a brief respite from pollution and heat. The skies appeared clearer, and the city skyline, often obscured by haze, was once again visible from Marine Drive to Powai. Experts have urged residents to use this period to adopt more sustainable habits including reduced vehicle idling, waste burning, and construction dust control to maintain the cleaner air.
