Mumbai and its surrounding areas are experiencing another spell of intense monsoon activity, leading to IMD issuing a 24-hour weather alert for the area as heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected over the next day, and waterlogging, traffic problems and localized flooding are causing issues for travel and traffic congestion in Mumbai and neighbouring districts.
The IMD has put Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and Raigad under Red and Orange alerts and warned of persistent rain with windy weather that could affect road transport, power supply and civic services. Citizens are asked to closely monitor official weather reports and follow advisories issued by local officials.
Many parts of Mumbai woke up to continuous rain in the morning as the city immediately started to wake up to continuous rainfall and water collected on the roads which brought water on roads and led to water gathering on roads and slow down vehicles, causing traffic jams during the busiest hours of the morning. The city’s many roads in low-lying areas were flooded, resulting in heavy waterlogging, which caused traffic congestion in areas where roads were flooded. Suburban railway services were also affected by rainwater near tracks, which reduced visibility, and commuters reported delays.
Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport experienced heavy rain and poor visibility, which affected flight operations. Airlines advised passengers to check flight schedules before leaving for the airport, as weather conditions could cause flight delays or rescheduling.
According to the IMD, the current weather pattern is driven by an active southwest monsoon combined with favourable atmospheric conditions over the Arabian Sea. Heavy to very heavy rain has been predicted in some areas with gusty winds running at 40 to 60 kmph in coastal areas. Such conditions could lead to uprooted trees, damage to temporary structures and interruptions in electricity supply.
Fishermen should not venture into the Arabian Sea until conditions improve. Strong winds, rough sea conditions and high waves pose a threat to fishing boats and coastal activities. Coastal residents have also been advised to be on their toes at high tide when the risk of flooding increases.
BMC, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local police have intensified their preparedness measures. Emergency teams are in place to work in flood-prone areas with rescue boats, pumps and relief equipment on hand. Stormwater drains are constantly being monitored and made ready for quick drainage where possible.
District administrations in Thane, Palghar and Raigad have also increased surveillance in landslide-prone areas. Heavy rainfall has saturated the soil in hilly areas, leading to landslides, falling trees and rockfalls. Residents around vulnerable areas should be prepared to move to safer places if instructed by authorities.
The weather situation is still being monitored by schools and government offices. Depending on the intensity of rainfall, local administration may suspend or alter their work schedules in order to ensure the safety of workers. Citizens have been encouraged to work from home wherever possible and avoid venturing into flooded streets.
Health officials have also warned people to be safe in the monsoon and avoid contact with stagnant water, drink clean drinking water and maintain hygiene to prevent waterborne diseases. Motorists are warned to drive slowly, keep a safe distance apart and not try to cross flooded roads, as potholes and strong water currents can be dangerous.
The IMD has said the next 24 hours will be very important for Mumbai and the surrounding areas. Residents should stay indoors unless necessary, have emergency contacts and rely only on official weather bulletins for guidance. Maharashtra is still experiencing an active monsoon phase and officials are on high alert in the event of an emergency and are working hard to cope with the heavy rainfall.
