Mumbai Monsoon Breaks 107-Year Record with Earliest Arrival in 75 Years

Mumbai witnessed a rare and historic weather event on May 25, 2025, when the city was drenched by over 90 mm of rain in just 24 hours. This sudden downpour marked the earliest monsoon arrival in 75 years, as confirmed by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

What makes this even more dramatic is that Mumbai broke a 107-year-old record for the highest rainfall ever recorded in the month of May. This intense and unexpected spell of rain not only brought early relief from the summer heat but also hinted at shifting climate patterns in the region.

The city, usually prepared for monsoon in mid-June, saw waterlogging, traffic jams, and rising concern among experts about extreme weather events becoming more frequent. While many Mumbaikars celebrated the cool breeze and cloudy skies, meteorologists warned that such changes in monsoon patterns could be linked to climate change and global warming.

This extraordinary rainfall event is now a talking point across India, raising questions about the preparedness of urban infrastructure to handle unexpected climate shifts.

Earliest Monsoon in Decades Shocks Experts

Monsoon usually reaches Mumbai around June 10. But this year, the rainy season arrived 15 days early, making it the earliest since 1950. The IMD confirmed that strong southwest winds and a low-pressure area over the Arabian Sea triggered the sudden onset.

This is the first time since 1917 that Mumbai has received such high rainfall in May.

Rain Brings Relief and Challenges to Mumbai

While the early monsoon may benefit farmers and improve water reserves, it also caused major disruptions:

• Waterlogging in key areas like Dadar, Sion, and Andheri
• Traffic congestion across major roads and highways
• Flight delays and cancellations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
• Increased risk of vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria

What Is Behind This Sudden Rainfall?

Meteorologists say the unusual rain is caused by:

• A low-pressure zone over the Konkan coast
• Warm sea temperatures that speed up monsoon winds
• Climate change patterns affecting monsoon timing

Experts warn this could be a sign of more unpredictable weather events in the future.

Authorities on High Alert

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has stepped up its preparedness by:

• Cleaning over 440 km of drainage lines
• Keeping pumping stations ready
• Issuing alerts to schools and offices to prepare for more rain

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FAQs

Q1. When did Mumbai get the 2025 monsoon?
May 25, 2025 — the earliest in 75 years.

Q2. How much rain was recorded?
Over 90 mm in just one day, breaking a 107-year-old record.

Q3. What caused this early rainfall?
A mix of strong monsoon winds, low pressure, and warm seas.

Q4. What are the main problems reported?
Waterlogging, traffic jams, flight delays, and health risks.