Mumbai: Temperature spikes, Air Quality Index deteriorates

Mumbai weather, which has remained pleasant so far turned warm on Monday as the maximum temperature soared to 35.3°C almost four degrees above normal. Apart from the hot and humid weather, deteriorating air quality was also a concern. However, as per experts, both factors are not going to last beyond Wednesday.

On Monday, Mumbai's overall air quality was 224, which was classified as 'poor'. However, out of 10 stations where System of Air Quality Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) monitors Air Quality Index (AQI) in Mumbai, five had recorded 'very poor' air quality on Sunday.

The worst affected area on Sunday with 'very poor' air quality and high levels of PM 2.5 were Mazgaon. In the morning, the PM2.5 level was recorded above 400, by evening it came down to 301. Similarly air quality was high at other stations. Borivali recorded PM2.5 level at 311, Andheri recorded PM2.5 level at 332, BKC recorded PM2.5 level at 342 and Navi Mumbai recorded PM2.5 level at 308. As per officials from SAFAR, the AQI is likely to improve by mid-week.

Meanwhile, private weather forecasting groups have predicted that warm and partly cloudy weather conditions will continue on Tuesday. "From Wednesday, Mumbai can expect cooler days and nights till Saturday. The maximum temperature would range between 27°C and 28°C while minimum temperature would range between 13°C and 14°C," said a weather official.

LOOKING AHEAD

As per officials from SAFAR, the AQI is likely to improve by mid-week. From Wednesday, Mumbai can expect cooler days and nights till Saturday.