Mumbai and Pune Brace for Heavy Pre-Monsoon Rains, Traffic Disrupted

Mumbai and Pune are on high alert as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts heavy rainfall due to developing pre-monsoon conditions. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for both cities, predicting light to moderate showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph starting Friday evening. This weather event marks the onset of the monsoon season, expected to fully arrive in approximately 20 days.

The impending downpours have already begun to impact daily life, with significant traffic congestion reported on key routes such as the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and Ghodbunder Road. Authorities have advised commuters to avoid non-essential travel to steer clear of potential waterlogging, a recurring issue in low-lying areas during heavy rains. The IMD’s regional forecast also places Thane, Raigad, and Nashik under a yellow alert, signaling similar weather challenges across parts of Maharashtra.

A weather enthusiast on X noted, “Mumbai monsoon is just 20 days away. Prepare for one of the wettest spells Mumbai has seen in recent years, as the monsoon looks surplus for India’s West Coast this year.” Another post on X highlighted that May is expected to conclude with intense rainfall across the west coast and northeast India, driven by twin circulations on either side of the country.

Temperature forecasts for Mumbai indicate minimums of 26°C and maximums of 34°C through the weekend. On Friday, rain or thunderstorms are likely in the evening or night, while Saturday and Sunday are expected to bring mostly cloudy skies with light rain or drizzle. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is actively preparing for the monsoon, coordinating with agencies to deploy dewatering pumps and monitor flood-prone areas to mitigate disruptions.