Mumbai has experienced a dramatic shift in weather patterns this monsoon season, achieving nearly 90% of its annual rainfall quota within just two months. According to data from the Santacruz observatory, the city has received 2,053 mm of rain since the onset of the monsoon, nearing its annual average of 2,319 mm.
July, which historically records the highest rainfall, proved exceptionally wet this year. Following a disappointing June, which saw a 35% deficit with only 347 mm of rain, Mumbai’s fortunes reversed with intense and consistent rainfall throughout July. The city recorded 1,706 mm of rain in July alone, surpassing the monthly average of 855 mm by over 50%. This marked July as Santacruz’s second wettest in a decade, only behind the previous year’s record of 1,771 mm.
Colaba, another key weather station, reported its wettest July in a decade with 1,402 mm of rain, surpassing its previous high of 1,356 mm from 2014. The overall increase in rainfall has significantly benefitted the city’s water reservoirs. After dipping to a critically low 5% capacity in early June, the seven lakes supplying Mumbai have replenished to 77.31% of their total capacity, equating to approximately 11.17 lakh million litres. The heavy downpours have also impacted other parts of Maharashtra, except Hingoli, with the state experiencing a general surplus in rainfall between June and July.
This has eased the concerns over water shortages that were prevalent during the earlier part of the monsoon season. Despite a lull in the final week of July, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) anticipates a resurgence of heavy rains starting August 1. A yellow alert has been issued, forecasting potential heavy rainfall in isolated areas across Mumbai. The shift in weather patterns underscores the city’s vulnerability to climate variability and highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and preparedness for the remainder of the monsoon season.
