Mumbai Shivers: Coldest Day in 8 Years with 16.5°C Temperature Recorded
Mumbai recorded its coldest day in eight years on Friday, with a minimum temperature of 16.5 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This temperature was logged at the Santacruz observatory from Thursday night to Friday morning.
Previously, Mumbai’s lowest temperature of 16.3 degrees Celsius was noted on November 11, 2016. In contrast, the Colaba observatory registered a minimum temperature of 21.4 degrees Celsius during the same timeframe.
IMD scientist Sushma Nair confirmed there is no cold wave expected for Maharashtra from November 30 to December 3. Instead, temperatures are anticipated to rise. This is the second time in four days that Mumbai has broken its temperature record. On November 26, the city recorded a low of 16.8 degrees Celsius, while the Colaba observatory measured 22.5 degrees Celsius.
How does urban geography affect temperature variations within Mumbai?
Interview: Understanding Mumbai’s Unusual Cold snap
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Sushma Nair,IMD scientist. Mumbai has recently recorded it’s coldest day in eight years with temperatures dropping too 16.5 degrees Celsius. Can you explain what factors contributed to this sudden drop in temperature?
Dr. Sushma Nair: Thank you for having me. The recent temperature drop in Mumbai can be attributed to the prevailing easterly and northerly winds, which have brought cooler air from the northern regions of India. This unusual weather pattern has resulted in temperatures well below the city’s typical November averages.
Interviewer: It’s engaging to note that a temperature of 16.5 degrees Celsius was recorded at the Santacruz observatory, while Colaba recorded a significantly higher 21.4 degrees Celsius. Why such a disparity between the two locations?
Dr.Sushma Nair: The difference in temperatures between Santacruz and Colaba is quite common and can be influenced by various local factors such as geography, urban heat effects, and proximity to the coast. Santacruz typically experiences cooler air flows due to its slightly elevated position and distance from the immediate sea influence, while Colaba tends to retain heat due to its coastal location.
Interviewer: With this being the second time in just four days that Mumbai has broken its temperature record, what can we expect in the coming days regarding weather patterns?
Dr.Sushma Nair: While the current cool snap has been notable, I can confirm that no cold wave is expected for Maharashtra from November 30 to December 3. Temperatures are anticipated to rise again soon. This increase will be influenced by a developing weather system in the Bay of Bengal, which will bring in moisture and lead to cloudier skies, ultimately pushing temperatures back up.
Interviewer: You mentioned the weather system in the Bay of Bengal. How does this system affect Mumbai’s weather so significantly?
Dr. Sushma Nair: The depression forming over the Bay of Bengal is crucial because it introduces moisture into our atmosphere. As this moisture increases, it leads to a rise in humidity and, ultimately, atmospheric temperature. The interaction between these moisture-laden winds and our current weather patterns will contribute to the expected rise in temperatures following December 3.
Interviewer: looking at the current metrics, Mumbai has also registered a maximum temperature of 27 degrees Celsius with an AQI of 106. What health implications should residents be aware of concerning air quality?
Dr. Sushma Nair: An AQI of 106 falls into the ‘moderate’ category, which means that while there is some level of pollution, it is indeed generally acceptable for moast people. However, individuals with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children should take precautions. It’s always advisable to monitor air quality levels, especially with an increase in humidity and cloud cover possibly affecting air quality further down the road.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Nair, for your insights into these weather changes affecting Mumbai.
Dr. Sushma nair: Thank you for having me. It’s vital for everyone to stay informed as weather patterns can significantly impact daily life.
IMD Mumbai Director Sunil Kamble explained that warmer temperatures will follow December 3 due to a weather system in the Bay of Bengal. Current easterly and northerly winds are responsible for the cooler temperatures. However, as the depression in the Bay of Bengal increases moisture, temperatures will rise, leading to cloudier skies in the following days.
On Friday, the maximum temperature in Mumbai was 27 degrees Celsius, with a humidity level of 48 percent. The city also recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 106, with a PM2.5 level of 37 µg/m³.