On May 26, 2025, Mumbai experienced an unprecedented weather event, breaking a 107-year-old record for May rainfall and witnessing its earliest monsoon onset in 75 years. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the Colaba observatory recorded 295 mm of rainfall, surpassing the previous record of 279.4 mm set in May 1918.
The monsoon’s arrival, 16 days ahead of the typical onset date of June 11, was attributed to favorable meteorological conditions, including low-pressure systems over the Arabian Sea. This early onset disrupted daily life, causing widespread flooding, traffic congestion, and the suspension of local train services.
The IMD issued a red alert for Mumbai and neighboring districts, warning of extremely heavy rainfall continuing until the morning of May 27. The early monsoon has also raised concerns among agricultural experts, as it may disrupt the Kharif sowing cycle and potentially damage summer crops.
As Mumbai grapples with the immediate impacts of this historic weather event, it underscores the need for enhanced urban planning and infrastructure resilience to cope with the increasing unpredictability of climate patterns.
