Mumbai, on Thursday, January 22, 2026, is experiencing a classic clear-sky winter day, characterized by bright, dry, and largely comfortable conditions, with the forecast indicating sunny weather throughout the day.Temperatures are expected to rise to approximately 28°C and dip to around 22.6°C by night. However, air quality remains a significant concern, as yesterday’s AQI (India) registered 251, placing it in the “Very Poor” category, which may persist into the morning hours before the day’s mixing winds offer some improvement, prompting recommendations for masks in traffic-heavy areas for those stepping out early.Sunshine is the dominant weather feature for the day, leading to a warm afternoon and a calmer evening period.The temperature range for today is forecast to be fairly steady for late January, moving from 22.6°C to 28°C.The average temperature for the day is projected to be near 24.8°C.Humidity levels are expected to sit around 61% on average, indicating that the day will not feel muggy.Despite this, individuals spending extended periods in the sun around midday may still notice a slightly sticky sensation.Winds are anticipated to pick up sufficiently to be noticeable, reaching speeds of up to about 22 km/h.This increased air movement is expected to make the afternoon feel a touch more breathable compared to days with windless or hazy conditions.Rain is essentially off the table for the day, with 0 mm of precipitation expected.The chance of rain is also at 0%.Visibility is forecast at 10 km, which is considered decent on paper.However, real-world haze, particularly when pollution is elevated, can still reduce how clear the skyline appears.In terms of how the day shifts, the best comfort window is expected to be from the morning into the late forenoon.This period will offer cooler air, less direct heat, and generally calmer conditions, making it suitable for errands or a quick jog.The afternoon is projected to be the harshest period due to glare and heat, especially between roughly noon and 3 pm.During these hours, the sun feels strongest, even in winter.By evening, temperatures are expected to ease, and with sunset occurring at 6:25 pm, a gentler and more comfortable outdoor stretch is anticipated for activities such as a stroll or a short commute break.
Air Quality Details
Yesterday, Wednesday, January 21, Mumbai recorded an AQI (India) of 251, which placed it in the “Very Poor” category.The US AQI for the same day was 197, also indicating unhealthy air quality.The biggest culprits identified for the air quality were PM2.5 at 116 µg/m³ and PM10 at 140 µg/m³, with CO recorded at 465, as listed.The article states:“In real terms, that mix can trigger throat irritation, watery eyes, coughing, and shortness of breath, especially for children, older adults, and anyone with asthma or heart conditions.”Today’s weather conditions, including sunny skies and a moderate breeze, can encourage better dispersion of pollutants compared to a still, stagnant day.However, since there is no rain, which typically helps wash particulates out of the air, a dramatic “scrubbed clean” effect should not be expected.In many cities, pollution can feel worst during the early morning and late evening hours.This is when air near the ground tends to be more trapped, so outdoor exercise plans should be adjusted accordingly.
Recommendations
For those commuting, carrying sunglasses is advised, as the afternoon sun will be sharp.Keeping water handy is also recommended, as bright winter sunshine, even at 28°C, can lead to dehydration faster than anticipated.Individuals sensitive to pollution are advised to choose mid-morning or early afternoon for shorter outdoor tasks.During these times, winds are more active, and masking up near congested junctions is a practical suggestion.For workouts, considering indoor sessions is recommended if one wakes up feeling wheezy or notices a smoky haze.If outdoor exercise is chosen, selecting open areas away from main roads is preferable, and maintaining a moderate intensity is advised.By evening, temperatures will be more pleasant, but if air quality remains elevated, a relaxed walk is considered safer than a hard run.
Week Ahead Forecast
The broader story for the week ahead is one of consistency, with sunny weather expected every day, no rain, and comfortable winter warmth.On January 23, a cooler daytime peak near 25.3°C is expected, with a low around 22.2°C, and breezier conditions with winds up to 25.2 km/h.January 24 will see a similar maximum temperature of 25.5°C, but a cooler low of 20.4°C.This day is likely to be the best night for open windows.From January 25 to 26, temperatures are expected to become warmer again, with highs near 27–27.3°C.On January 27 and 28, highs will be around 26.2–26.3°C, with January 28 turning breezier again, experiencing winds up to 25.6 km/h.For those who prefer cooler evenings, Saturday, January 24, is identified as the best day for outdoor plans, thanks to its lowest nighttime temperature.If pollution continues to be a pattern, the breezier days, specifically January 23 and January 28, may feel a bit more comfortable for longer outdoor time.Data referenced in this article is taken from AQI.in.
