The India Meteorological Department has declared the southwest monsoon withdrawn from large parts of north and central India, including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh, marking the end of the 2026 rainy season.

Mumbai saw one of its earliest withdrawals this century, with the monsoon retreating from the city on October 3. Santacruz recorded 37.4 degrees Celsius as classic October heat set in, with high humidity making afternoons uncomfortable.

In a contrasting alert, the IMD has issued a yellow warning for Palghar district, forecasting heavy to very heavy rain with thunder and lightning over the next two days. Fishermen and commuters in low-lying areas have been advised to stay cautious.

The 2026 monsoon ended with a national rainfall shortfall of about 10 to 13 per cent, which forecasters link in part to a strengthening El Nino in the Pacific. Southern peninsula and northeastern states may still see isolated heavy showers.