Why is Mumbai monsoon delayed? IMD explains weather disruption and new arrival date

Mumbai has missed its June 11 monsoon onset deadline, with IMD now expecting rains around June 15. Weak winds, dry air and shifting weather patterns have delayed the southwest monsoon’s progress over the city.

Post Published By: Donika Singh

Updated : 12 June 2026, 5:38 PM IST

Monsoon Delay in Mumbai explained (Img Internet)

Mumbai: The southwest monsoon has not yet arrived in Mumbai, missing its official onset date of June 11. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), there are currently no immediate signs of rainfall over the city, with conditions expected to improve only later next week.

The monsoon has already advanced over southern Maharashtra and is likely to cover parts of south Konkan and Madhya Maharashtra within the next four to five days.

Why the Monsoon Is Delayed

IMD officials have attributed the delay to a combination of meteorological factors. The Arabian Sea branch of the monsoon has remained weak, while westerly winds have not gained sufficient strength.

Dry air intrusion over the Konkan coast, along with western disturbances from northwest India, has further disrupted moisture flow. An emerging El Niño-like pattern has also contributed to irregular weather conditions, slowing down the monsoon’s northward movement.

Expected Timeline for Rainfall

Weather experts now expect the monsoon to reach Mumbai around June 15. However, widespread and consistent rainfall is likely to develop only by June 18 or 19, when atmospheric conditions are expected to stabilise.

IMD has also stated that high temperatures and humid conditions will continue until the monsoon becomes fully active over the region.

Current Weather Conditions in the City

Mumbai has been experiencing uncomfortable heat and humidity. Pre-monsoon drizzle was recorded earlier, but it has done little to reduce rising temperatures, which have remained above 30 degrees Celsius in many areas.

Observatories at Santacruz and Colaba recorded high humidity levels, with only light rainfall activity reported in recent weeks.

Regional Weather Trends in Maharashtra

While Mumbai awaits the monsoon, several parts of Maharashtra have already received pre-monsoon showers. Pune recorded noticeable rainfall in May, offering temporary relief from intense heat, even as temperatures in other districts crossed 40 degrees Celsius.

The IMD has indicated that monsoon activity is gradually strengthening over southern parts of the state, but its progress towards Mumbai remains slower than expected.

Once conditions stabilise, the city is expected to experience a significant increase in rainfall activity over the coming days.