What is the story about?
Mumbai's long wait for the southwest monsoon is set to continue, as forecasters have once again adjusted the expected arrival date amid a sluggish advance
across western India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has now revised the monsoon onset over Mumbai to around June 25, 2026, which is nearly two weeks later than the city's normal arrival date of June 11. The delayed onset comes as the monsoon has lost momentum after making an early advance into parts of southern and eastern India.
Why is Monsoon Delayed in Mumbai?
According to the weather experts, the primary reason for this slowdown is the absence of strong moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea, which are crucial for carrying the monsoon northward along the Konkan coast.
According to the latest forecasts, moisture inflow is expected to strengthen between June 20 and June 21. This increase could help rebuild the monsoon circulation and create favourable conditions for widespread rainfall over Maharashtra, including Mumbai, during the final week of June. However, significant rainfall activity is unlikely before this period.
Mumbai Weather
The current weather conditions have resulted in persistently warm and humid temperatures across the city. Night-time temperatures have remained unusually high, with some stations recording the warmest June nights on record.
The city has experienced a staggering 79% rain deficit from June 4 to June 17, 2026, raising concerns about water security as Mumbai's reservoirs are currently at just 10.72% of capacity.
Mumbai Faces Water Cut
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has implemented a 10% water cut to manage supplies as the situation worsens. The existing water stocks are estimated to last for only about 40 more days if substantial monsoon rainfall does not arrive soon.
This lack of rainfall has led to discomfort for residents, who are anxiously awaiting the monsoon's arrival. In the past, Mumbai has also experienced delayed monsoon arrivals in previous years, including 2019 and 2023, when the IMD declared the onset over Mumbai on June 25.
However, the current situation feels particularly concerning as June progresses with little to no significant rain. The city's dependence on seven lakes for its drinking water supply adds urgency to the need for timely monsoon rains.
