Mumbai: The onset of monsoon in Mumbai has been delayed by approximately 10 days, according to meteorologists' estimates. The regional Meteorological Center in Mumbai, led by Sunil Kamble, reported that the monsoon had reached the coastal areas of Ratnagiri but faced hindrances in further progress due to cyclone Biporjoy. However, Kamble expressed optimism, stating that the conditions were now becoming favorable for the monsoon's advancement. It is expected to reach Mumbai over the upcoming weekend, between June 23 and June 25.
Anurag Kashyapi from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) in Pune also confirmed that the conditions remained favorable for the Southwest Monsoon to advance over various parts of southern peninsular India, including South Maharashtra, Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, and Jharkhand within the next two or three days.
Most delayed monsoon in Mumbai was observed in 2009
Skymet, a leading private weather forecasting agency, highlighted that the most delayed monsoon in Mumbai was observed on June 27, 2009, which was attributed to El Nino. This year, residents of Mumbai hope that this record will not be surpassed.
Climate expert and founder of Vagaries, Rajesh Kapadia, explained, "The Southwesterly winds along the Konkan coast regain strength once the cyclone's effects subside. Therefore, it is anticipated that the monsoon will advance into North Konkan and Mumbai by June 25. Rainfall is expected to increase in Mumbai from the night of June 24, with frequent showers thereafter." Kapadia also clarified that while the onset date coincides with the most delayed monsoon arrival in Mumbai in 1959 and 2019, it does not necessarily indicate a weak monsoon season.
