Relentless rain swept across parts of Mumbai over the weekend, intensifying the city’s ongoing struggle with monsoon-related disruptions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted more showers over the next 48 hours, along with gusty winds and thunderstorms, keeping residents on high alert.
With the downpour showing no signs of letting up, several parts of the city have already been hit by severe waterlogging, resulting in heavy traffic jams on key roads and daily commutes turning into hours-long ordeals.
Despite the inconvenience, the rainfall has brought a much-needed boost to the city's water reserves. As per the latest data from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) released on July 19, the combined stock in the seven reservoirs that supply water to Mumbai has risen to 81.86% of their total capacity — a promising 11,84,796 million litres.
Monsoon In Mumbai For This Week
Looking at the days ahead, Mumbai’s skies are expected to remain overcast throughout the week, according to the IMD’s forecast. Monday will bring moderate rainfall and cooler-than-usual conditions, though persistent humidity may still leave the air feeling heavy.
By Tuesday, the city is likely to see continued showers under consistently cloudy skies. While temperatures will stay mild, humidity is expected to linger. Wednesday will mirror similar conditions, with steady rainfall and grey skies dominating the city’s skyline. The wet spell is set to continue into Thursday, although no severe weather warnings have been issued so far.
Nationwide Rainfall Trends
Across India, many states and Union Territories have recorded normal monsoon rainfall — defined as precipitation that falls within 19% above or below the long-term average. This includes regions such as Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and the northeastern states of Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur, and Nagaland.
Southern and western regions like Goa, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry have also seen rainfall levels within the expected range. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, along with Chhattisgarh and Sikkim, have followed a similar pattern.
Indian Economy And Monsoon
The southwest monsoon remains a lifeline for India — especially for the agricultural sector, which supports nearly 42% of the population and contributes 18.2% to the country’s GDP.
Beyond farming, the rains are vital for replenishing reservoirs that supply drinking water and support hydroelectric power generation, making consistent rainfall not just a meteorological event but an economic necessity.
As Mumbai continues to navigate this year’s monsoon, the city — like much of the nation — must strike a balance between weathering the inconvenience and welcoming the life-sustaining benefits of the rain.