Mumbai is facing a major weather crisis after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for heavy rainfall in the city and nearby districts. Rain has been lashing the metropolis for the past three days, causing widespread waterlogging, travel disruption, and anxiety among residents and authorities.
IMD Red Alert: What Does It Mean
The IMD issues a red alert when rainfall is expected to be extremely heavy. This warning signals that residents and officials must take immediate action to stay safe. The forecast for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, and Palghar districts included continuous downpours, thunderstorms, and strong winds up to 50 km/h. Rainfall in some areas crossed 100 mm within 24 hours, making this one of the wettest periods in recent history.
Rainfall Records and Current Data
Mumbai witnessed exceptionally heavy rainfall, with the Colaba observatory reporting 101.2 mm and Santacruz recording 77.5 mm of rain in just one day. Western suburbs received an average of nearly 100 mm. This month, Mumbai has reported 606 mm of rainfall, making it the wettest September since 2021. Total monsoon rainfall this season has crossed 3,100 mm, which is hundreds of millimeters above the average.
Impact on Transport and Daily Life
Heavy rainfall led to waterlogging in many parts of the city. Local trains on the Central and Western Railway lines ran with delays. The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) buses mostly operated smoothly, with few diversions. Roads became flooded, and the Andheri subway was shut down temporarily before reopening after drainage operations. Multiple incidents of fallen trees and branches were reported, but there were no casualties thanks to quick response by municipal teams.
Government Response and Precautions
Authorities have set up emergency control rooms for round-the-clock monitoring. Water pumps are deployed in low-lying areas to prevent flood damage. Disaster management teams are ready for repairs and clearances. Residents in structurally weak buildings have been asked to remain vigilant. The government also warned about landslides in ghat areas and flash floods, and dam water levels are being closely watched.
School Closures and Advisory Information
Schools in nearby districts, including Palghar, were ordered shut as part of safety protocols under the IMD red alert. Advisories urge everyone to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors during intense showers. The Mumbai Police and the BMC disaster management cell have requested residents to stay connected for updates.
Rainfall in Surrounding Areas
Thane recorded 116 mm of rainfall, and parts of Navi Mumbai like Airoli and Nerul also crossed the 100 mm mark. The Konkan belt and ghat regions of Nashik have seen very heavy rain, with warnings of more showers ahead. The IMD has issued different levels of alerts (red, orange, and yellow) for Maharashtra districts, depending on expected rainfall intensity.
Risks of Urban Floods and Landslides
Mumbai’s risk of urban flooding increases sharply during such spells. Waterlogging disrupts daily life, stalls vehicles, and can damage property. Landslides and flash floods are major risks in hilly regions. Control rooms are active to coordinate quick response, and repair teams are pre-positioned for emergencies. Power outages and traffic jams are common during such heavy rainfall events.
How Residents Are Coping
Locals are sharing updates and warnings through social media and local news platforms. Many residents are stocking up on essentials, staying inside, and checking weather updates regularly. Emergency services are on standby, and volunteers have joined hands with civic authorities for clearing roads and helping those stranded.
Outlook for The Coming Days
The IMD has predicted more cloudy skies and heavy rainfall for Mumbai and its neighboring districts. Rain activity is linked to a weakening depression moving towards the Arabian Sea and may persist until September 30. Municipal teams continue close monitoring of river flows, dam discharge, and rainfall patterns. While rain is expected to ease gradually, isolated pockets may witness further intense showers.
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