Mumbai and Thane have been put on high alert as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red warning on Wednesday evening. This comes after heavy rainfall and thunderstorm activity continued to pound the city and its surrounding areas, significantly increasing the risk of flooding and other weather-related disruptions. The red alert will remain in effect until Thursday morning, signalling the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds.
The intensity of the rain began to gather pace on Wednesday afternoon, leading to severe waterlogging in low-lying areas. Notably, regions such as Mulund, Bhandup, and the Andheri subway were severely affected, with several streets submerged under water. Traffic was halted in these areas, adding to the already challenging conditions for residents.
The continuous rainfall also caused flooding in other parts of the city’s suburbs, further disrupting daily life. The IMD’s Santacruz weather station recorded 74 mm of rain, while the Colaba station registered 41 mm by Wednesday morning. By the afternoon, the torrential downpour had intensified, with thunderstorms exacerbating the situation.
IMD’s Red and Orange Alerts
As Mumbai and Thane brace for more inclement weather, the IMD has upgraded its forecast to a red alert, indicating the potential for extremely heavy rainfall in the city until 8:30 a.m. on Thursday. The forecast includes severe thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. An orange alert has been issued for Thursday, signifying that heavy to very heavy rainfall is still expected, though the intensity may slightly decrease.
Palghar, a neighbouring district, has been placed under a red alert for Thursday, indicating a higher risk of extreme weather conditions in that region.
One positive outcome of the heavy rains is the significant rise in water levels in the seven lakes that supply water to Mumbai. As of Wednesday morning, the lake levels had reached 99.26%, amounting to 14.36 lakh million litres. This ensures a robust water supply for the city, which is essential for meeting the demands of its population. Comparatively, the water stock on the same day in 2022 and 2023 hovered around 98%, reflecting how this season’s rainfall has helped secure more water reserves.
Weather Forecast for the Coming Days
The IMD has warned that Mumbai, Thane, and surrounding districts will continue to experience heavy rains and thunderstorms over the next few days. While the red alert remains until Thursday morning, the orange alert for Thursday means the city is not completely out of danger yet.
The continued heavy rainfall could lead to further waterlogging, particularly in low-lying areas. Residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel during this period. Local authorities are on high alert, and disaster management teams are prepared to respond to any emergencies that may arise due to the weather.
As the monsoon season reaches its peak, Mumbai and Thane face significant challenges with continuous downpours and thunderstorms. The IMD’s red alert serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather, and residents must take the necessary precautions to stay safe. Despite the inconveniences, the replenished water levels in Mumbai’s lakes offer some relief, ensuring that the city’s water supply remains secure for the foreseeable future. However, the situation remains volatile, and further updates from the IMD will guide the city's preparedness in the coming days.
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Akanksha Sinha
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