IMD Issues Orange Alert for Mumbai; City Battles Severe Waterlogging

Mumbai, India – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Mumbai on Sunday, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall across the city and its neighboring districts, including Thane, Palghar, and Raigad. The alert, signaling significant weather concerns, has prompted authorities to urge residents to stay cautious as the city grapples with waterlogging in several areas.

On Sunday, the IMD forecasted intense showers, with some parts of Mumbai expected to receive up to 200 mm of rain within 24 hours. The downpour has already disrupted daily life, with low-lying areas such as Sion, Kurla, and Andheri reporting severe waterlogging. Traffic snarls plagued major roads, including the Western Express Highway, as commuters struggled to navigate flooded streets. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) deployed teams to clear drainage systems and manage water accumulation, but challenges persisted in heavily affected zones.

Local trains, the lifeline of Mumbai’s workforce, faced delays due to water on the tracks, particularly on the Central and Harbour lines. The BMC advised residents to avoid non-essential travel and monitor weather updates closely. Emergency services, including the fire brigade and disaster management teams, were placed on high alert to respond to potential flooding incidents.

The IMD’s bulletin, cited by ANI, highlighted the influence of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, intensifying monsoon activity across Maharashtra. Coastal areas like Colaba recorded 70 mm of rainfall by Sunday afternoon, while Santacruz logged 65 mm. The forecast predicts continued heavy rain through Monday, with the orange alert extended for Mumbai and surrounding regions.

Residents have been urged to stay indoors where possible and report waterlogging or fallen trees to the BMC’s helpline. As Mumbai battles the deluge, civic authorities are working to mitigate the impact, but the city remains on edge, preparing for more rain in the coming hours.

Exit mobile version