Mumbai Weather: Calm, Dry Day with Winter Warmth, Air Quality Concerns Persist
Mumbai: Calm Day, Air Quality Concerns Remain

Mumbai, on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, is set to enjoy a calm and largely dry day characterized by partly cloudy skies and comfortable winter warmth. The city's weather presents a straightforward forecast for commuters and outdoor enthusiasts, with temperatures ranging from a pleasant 22.6°C to a mild 25.4°C. However, this ease in weather comes with a significant caveat: yesterday's "very poor" air quality is expected to linger, making mask use advisable near busy roads and during peak traffic hours.

Today's Weather Details: A Mild Coastal Winter Day

The day begins on a tranquil note, with partly cloudy skies and comfortable winter warmth building throughout. No rain is expected, ensuring a hassle-free experience for those planning outdoor activities or daily commutes. The high temperature of 25.4°C and low of 22.6°C keep the day warm but not sticky by Mumbai's standards, offering a respite from more extreme conditions.

Humidity, Winds, and Visibility

Humidity levels are forecast to sit around 72% on average, which may make the air feel slightly heavier in the afternoon, particularly in crowded areas. Winds are expected to pick up, with a top speed near 20.2 kmph, providing some ventilation but not strong enough to significantly flush out pollution. Visibility is projected at around 10 km, and the rain gauge remains clean with 0 mm precipitation and a 0% chance of rain.

Hour-by-Hour Pattern

The day's weather shifts consistently from a pleasant, mild morning after sunrise at 7:14 AM to a slightly warmer midday under broken clouds. A comfortable evening is anticipated as temperatures ease after sunset at 6:28 PM. For outdoor exercise, the early morning window should feel easiest, though pollution precautions should not be overlooked.

Air Quality Concerns: Lingering "Very Poor" Conditions

Yesterday, Mumbai recorded an AQI (India) of 290, firmly placing it in the "very poor" Category 4. The US AQI was 210, also indicating unhealthy air. Key pollutants included particle pollution, with PM2.5 measured at 132 and PM10 at 158, levels that typically cause throat and eye irritation, heavier breathing during exertion, and flare-ups for individuals with asthma, allergies, or heart and lung conditions. Carbon monoxide (CO) was present at 275, reinforcing the traffic-and-combustion signature common in dense urban corridors.

Today's dry, partly cloudy conditions with moderate winds may prevent pollution from spiking as sharply as on still days. However, without rain to wash particles out, air quality remains a concern, especially during peak traffic hours. This necessitates continued vigilance and protective measures.

Practical Advice for Residents

Given the weather, it's tempting to pack in errands and outdoor time. To stay safe and comfortable, consider the following tips:

  • Time outdoor activities for the morning or late evening when temperatures are more comfortable.
  • If sensitive to pollution, avoid heavy exertion near arterial roads during rush hour.
  • Use a well-fitted mask for two-wheeler riders, walkers near traffic, and long-distance commuters.
  • Wear sunglasses and light cottons as the sun peeks through clouds.
  • Stay hydrated even in milder heat.
  • For indoor spaces, a closed-window, filtered-air setup can make a noticeable difference on very poor AQI days.

Week Ahead Outlook: Sunnier and Warmer Conditions

The outlook through early February is dominated by clear, sunny weather with rising daytime temperatures and no rain indicated. After today's partly cloudy conditions, Wednesday, January 28, turns sunny with a higher 26.9°C and a cooler 20.6°C low. The warm-up continues on Thursday, January 29, likely making it the hottest stretch in this run at around 29°C. Temperatures will then settle near 27–29°C into the weekend, with a couple of days bringing a little cloud back, such as Friday, January 31, trending partly cloudy.

The bigger pattern remains steady: dry skies, comfortable nights, and warmer afternoons. For outdoor plans, Wednesday and Thursday look excellent for daylight activities. However, pollution precautions should still be factored in, as air quality may stay elevated. The hottest, sunniest days could feel harsher for local pollution during midday travel.

Data referenced in this article is taken from AQI.in, providing reliable insights into Mumbai's weather and air quality trends.