Mumbai was beaten with very heavy rains for the second consecutive day. The rains were less intense last night, as compared to the previous day. Santacruz observatory recorded 154mm rainfall as against the previous day count of 268mm. July gathers a total of 542mm rainfall as against the monthly normal of 840.7mm, reaching way ahead of the half way mark. Rains are likely to ease out, more so for northern half of Konkan region. Mumbai can expect a much needed breather, albeit short, for the next three days.
Earlier June was deficit by over 30% rainfall, stopping well short of monthly normal of 493.1 mm. Three digit rainfall in 24 hrs for two successive days, partially covers the shortfall and looks promising to catch up with the stipulated target of half way through the season. Month of August and September become slightly lenient by drawing the monthly normal of 585.2mm and 341.4mm respectively.
Westerly stream from the Arabian Sea is moderately strong along the Konkan coast, from its earlier stance of fast and furious. The threat of heavy rains is not completely over but has surely scaled down, both in intensity and spread. Showers are likely to be intermittent and moderate with sufficient breaks in between. Forenoon and afternoon hours will further be lenient and weather activity will increase towards evening and night.
Mumbai showers will become further scanty in the next two days, on 10th and 11thJuly. In view of another cyclonic circulation forming over Bay of Bengal and the coast line around 12th July, the monsoon stream will strengthen along the Konkan coast. As the circulation persists and get consolidated before moving inland on 14th /15th July, the rains will increase during this period. Konkan coastline from Sindhudurg-Ratnagiri to Thane-Dahanu, including Mumbai, will be at risk of sharp, intense and long duration showers. Mid-week next is to be watched out for yet another deluge for Mumbai and suburbs.
Image credit: Hindustan Times