Mumbai Braces for More Rain as IMD Issues Yellow Alert

MUMBAI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted continued rainfall in Mumbai this week, driven by conditions favorable for pre-monsoon showers. On Monday, the IMD issued a yellow alert for the city, effective Tuesday, signaling the likelihood of thunderstorms, lightning, and light to moderate rainfall in isolated areas. This alert also applies to neighboring districts including Thane, Raigad, and Palghar.

The city recorded a maximum temperature of 34°C and a minimum of 27°C on Monday, with air quality improving to an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 52, classified as satisfactory. Last week, Mumbai experienced significant unseasonal rainfall, marking it as the second-wettest May in a decade. The IMD’s Colaba observatory recorded 48.7 mm of rainfall, while Santacruz logged 38.4 mm by Friday. This heavy rainfall brought relief from the heat, with Colaba registering 22.2°C, the lowest May temperature since 1951, and Santacruz recording 20.6°C on Thursday morning.

Light showers are expected to persist into Wednesday, but the IMD predicts drier conditions and clear skies by mid-week. The agency advises residents to exercise caution, particularly during thunderstorms, due to potential hazards such as gusty winds.