Heat likely to stay for 3 days, followed by chance of rain

As Mumbaikars have been sweating it out in the scorching heat for the past two days, the weathermen have informed us that this 'uncomfortable' weather is likely to remain for the next three to four days, after which there is a likelihood of rain in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra.

Even as Mumbai skies have cleared up and there has been very little rain, Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) officials said that monsoon has not withdrawn from the state. "Current temperatures are slightly above normal and the discomfort is mainly caused by the easterly winds, due to which the sea breeze sets in late causing the temperature and humidity to rise. As it is a coastal city, it is the first to be impacted," said an official from IMD Mumbai, adding that as per the weather models, there are conditions prevailing, which indicate that there can be rains across several parts of Maharashtra.

"There are chances of some good spells of rains after October 6 across Maharashtra, after which we expect the southwest monsoons to withdraw from the state. In 2016, the monsoons withdrew on October 14. This year, too, we expect it around the same time,' said the official.

In fact, while several Mumbaikars blamed the rising mercury on the 'October Heat' effect, weather officials clarified that the October heat was yet to begin. "Its mostly mid-October when weather patterns begin showing a shift post the Southwest monsoon withdrawal, and temperatures see a surge along with humidity causing discomfort, is categorised as October heat," said another official.

The maximum recorded temperature at Colaba on Monday was 32.4 degree Celsius, while on Tuesday it was 32 degree Celsius. Similarly, Santacruz recorded 33.5 degree Celsius on Tuesday, while on Monday the temperature was the same.