Alibag, a coastal town in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, is defined by its Tropical Savanna Climate (Aw). Positioned between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, the town experiences significant seasonal shifts in humidity and rainfall while maintaining consistently warm temperatures throughout the year.
Seasonal Climate Dynamics
The Monsoon (June to September)
This is the most transformative period for the region. Alibag receives staggering amounts of rainfall, often exceeding 2,500mm annually, with the peak occurring in July and August.
- Environment: The landscape turns deep emerald, and the air is saturated with moisture. July alone can see over 23 rainy days and significantly high humidity (86%).
- Atmosphere: While the heavy rains can disrupt travel—including the suspension of some ferry services—locals experience a "rejuvenation phase." The winds are cool and refreshing, providing a sharp contrast to the pre-monsoon heat.
Winter (October to February)
Widely considered the most comfortable season, winter in Alibag is mild rather than cold.
- Temperature: Daytime highs range from 28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F), while nighttime lows can dip to a crisp 17°C to 20°C (63°F to 68°F).
- Feel: This is the only time of year when humidity is at its lowest (around 45–60%), making the air feel "crisp." The sea is calm, and the skies are consistently clear, offering iconic golden coastal sunsets.
Summer (March to May)
Before the rains arrive, Alibag experiences a heated build-up characterized by rising temperatures and intense humidity.
- Temperature: May is the warmest month, with averages reaching 32°C (90°F) and occasional peaks near 36°C (97°F).
- Humidity: The "perceived temperature" or heat index is significantly higher than the actual thermometer reading due to the moisture-laden sea breeze.
Daily Weather Rhythms
- Coastal Breezes: The day-night cycle is heavily influenced by the sea and land breezes. In the late afternoon, a steady sea breeze moves inland, providing vital relief during the hotter months.
- Diurnal Stability: Unlike inland Maharashtra, Alibag’s temperatures do not fluctuate wildly between day and night because the proximity to the Arabian Sea acts as a heat sink, moderating the climate.
Microclimates and Variations
- Inland vs. Coast: There is a distinct variation between the beachfront and inland villages like Chaul. The immediate coast is often 2–3 degrees cooler during the day due to wind, while inland areas—shaded by dense coconut and betel nut groves (Wadis)—trap humidity and offer a more "tropical jungle" feel.
- The Ghat Influence: The proximity to the Western Ghats means that even when the coast is clear, the eastern horizon may be shrouded in mist or clouds as the mountains trap moisture moving in from the sea.
Historical Context and Local Adaptation
Historically, Alibag’s architecture and lifestyle have been built around the monsoon. Traditional houses feature sloped roofs and large overhangs to manage the heavy downpours. Locals adapt to the "Pre-Monsoon Heat" (April-May) by shifting intense physical labor to the early morning and late evening, while the monsoon period is traditionally a time for agricultural focus in the rice paddies and inland farms.
What the Weather "Feels Like"
Beyond the numbers, Alibag is defined by its sensory climate. In winter, it feels like a soft, dry heat that invites walking. In summer, the weather is "sticky" and heavy, where a high dew point makes even a slow walk feel like exertion. During the monsoon, the weather feels "alive"—the sound of the rain is constant, and the air feels dense with the scent of wet earth and salt.