Mumbai: A massive dust storm and rain cooled temperatures across Mumbai, Thane, and surrounding areas on Monday afternoon. The day began with cloudy skies, as forecasted by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The IMD predicted rainfall or thunder showers throughout the day and into the night.
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) experienced sudden changes in weather, with brief heavy showers, dust storms, and lightning. While the rains provided relief from the sweltering heat, incidents of tree collapses, waterlogging, and traffic jams were reported across the city, leading to major accidents. According to the IMD, a similar situation of short-lived phenomena is expected today as well.
IMD Chief Shares Update On Weather
IMD Chief Sunil Kamble said, "Essentially, when thunderstorm activity commences, ground wind speeds escalate along with brief bursts of gustiness. These sudden gusts can cause rapid damage. We had forecasted this thunderstorm nowcast, and as predicted, it lasted for approximately one hour. Such occurrences are termed Short-Lived Phenomena, lasting anywhere from one to one and a half hours, characterized by strong winds that pose a heightened risk of damage within a short span. A similar situation is anticipated on Tuesday - May 14. Based on wind direction, we will identify areas and timings prone to these short-lived phenomena, enabling us to issue alerts two to three hours in advance."
According to the information received from IMD, Mumbai may experience gusty, strong winds with dust in it, Mumbaikars are adviced to stay indoors. IMD Chief said, "In such situations, we advise staying indoors. When strong winds or thunderstorms occur, it's safest to seek shelter indoors, preferably under sturdy shade or within a building, and to avoid proximity to wires and hoardings."
Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and light to moderate spells of rain, with gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph, occurred at isolated places in Mumbai district, stated an IMD official. The Regional Meteorological Center (RMC) has issued a yellow alert for Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Solapur, Latur, Beed, Nagpur, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts, indicating the likelihood of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds (30-40kmph) at isolated places.
Possibility Of Light Rain/Thundershower Today
According to the weather department, Mumbai is expected to experience light rain and thundershowers. An official from the Regional Meteorological Centre Mumbai stated, "There is a possibility of light rain/thundershower in the evening/night on Tuesday. Maximum and minimum temperatures will be around 35°C and 28°C respectively."
Severe dust storms accompanied by rain have engulfed the city on Monday, disrupting normal life. IMD weather forecasts indicate that temperatures will range between 26-27°C for minimums and 32-35°C for maximums over the next few days. Rain is expected to continue in Mumbai and surrounding regions, providing relief from the heatwaves experienced in April. The IMD has issued an orange alert for regions like Kolhapur, Satara, Pune, Ahmednagar, Nashik, and parts of Vidarbha.
AQI In Satisfactory Category
Regarding air quality, the Air Quality Index (AQI) for PM10 particles in Mumbai currently stands at 76, falling within the 'Satisfactory' category. SAFAR-India suggests AQI values between zero and 50 as 'good', while values between 50 and 100 are considered 'satisfactory'. Moderate caution is advised for AQI levels between 100 and 200.
