Mumbai woke up to an unsettling scene on Friday as a thick layer of smog enveloped the city, obscuring its famous skyline. Despite a reported Air Quality Index (AQI) of 80, indicating 'good' air quality, residents expressed concerns.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) attributed the smog to "thermal inversion", a phenomenon where cooler air at ground level traps pollutants beneath a warmer layer above, leading to fog-like conditions. This occurs when dew mixes with dust from vehicles, industries, and construction, diminishing visibility, usually during winters.

Currently, due to a drop in sea breeze, dust and other particles are accumulating in the air, leading to the formation of smog.

Social media users criticised the BMC for its seemingly condescending response, which many perceived as an attempt to minimise the seriousness of the issue.

“Thank you very much for defining the problem for us. We would now like to know what the plan of action–to combat this problem, is,” said one X user.

“Pls tell us what actions have been taken to ensure clean air which one can breathe. Don’t require such nonsense Googled explanation,” wrote another.

Mumbai Nowcast, a meteorological newscaster on X, had warned residents about Thursday’s de-facto “gas chamber” weather, causing panic. “Mumbai has turned into a Gas Chamber today! Avoid outdoor cardio activity today if possible! People with asthma do wear Masks today!,” the post read.

As of Friday morning, Mumbai ranked 7th on the World Air Quality Index (AQI), with Delhi holding the top spot.

Compounding these issues, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a Yellow Alert for the weekend, predicting thunderstorms, gusty winds, and scattered rain. With temperatures expected to range from 25°C to 34°C, the city's weather will remain cloudy, with intermittent showers. A cyclonic circulation over Lakshadweep and another developing over the North Andaman Sea are influencing these conditions.