Mumbai experienced an unexpected storm on Friday evening, sweeping across Thane, Mumbra, Kalyan, and Dombivli with strong winds, heavy rain, and dust clouds.
The sudden weather shift caught many off guard, prompting the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to issue an official weather alert, urging residents to take necessary precautions. The BMC’s warning, posted on social media platform X, stated, “Nowcast warning issued at 16:25 hours on 04 April 2025: Thunderstorms with lightning and light rain, along with gusty winds of 30-40 km/h, are likely in Mumbai over the next 3-4 hours. Please take precautions if stepping outside.” The India Meteorological Department (IMD) also issued an advisory, forecasting a heatwave in Mumbai and surrounding districts from April 5 to April 8. This warning highlighted the potential for hot and humid conditions, advising people to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
Videos shared by residents showed dark clouds rolling in, with strong gusts carrying dust and debris, reducing visibility, especially in the Kalyan-Dombivli region. Experts attributed the sudden dust storm to a combination of high humidity, loose construction debris, and seasonal weather changes, exacerbated by rapid urban development. Mumbai’s Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded a level of 90 on Friday, classified as satisfactory. However, individuals with respiratory conditions were advised to exercise caution, as dust and pollution levels could cause discomfort. The city’s temperature ranged between 27°C and 34°C, with 61% humidity, while winds from the west blew at speeds of 19 km/h.
The IMD’s latest update predicted continued gusty winds, thunderstorms, and lightning in Mumbai and its suburbs until April 4. Areas like Kalyan, Bhiwandi, and Ulhasnagar could witness moderate thunderstorms, while light rain was expected in Thane and Navi Mumbai. Authorities recommended that people with respiratory issues remain indoors and wear masks when venturing outside. Social media buzzed with posts from residents sharing images and videos of the storm’s impact. One user wrote, “Weather alert! Sudden gusts and dust storm hit KDMC area. Temp dropped from 39°C to a dusty storm within 15 minutes!” Others raised concerns about the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, linking them to climate change and poor urban planning.
Experts warned that such unpredictable weather patterns are becoming more common due to the effects of climate change and rising pollution levels. They stressed the importance of resilient urban planning and improved infrastructure to withstand such events. In response to the storm, the BMC and local authorities intensified monitoring efforts, ensuring emergency services were on standby. The civic body’s officials urged residents to stay informed through official channels and take all necessary precautions to stay safe amid these rapidly changing weather conditions.
This unexpected storm highlights the urgent need for cities like Mumbai to adapt to evolving climate patterns, focusing on sustainable development, disaster preparedness, and eco-friendly urban planning to build resilient communities.
Mumbai Faces Sudden Storm, BMC Issues Weather Alert for Safety Precautions
