Heavy Rainfall Batters Mumbai: IMD Issues Red and Orange Alerts for Several Maharashtra Districts

Mumbai, May 23: Mumbai and several other districts across Maharashtra are bracing for intense weather conditions, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts in response to a developing low-pressure system over the Arabian Sea. The warnings are in effect through May 24, with forecasts predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds.

According to the IMD, temperatures in Mumbai this week are expected to range between 26°C and 34°C. Overcast skies and widespread rainfall are likely, owing to cyclonic circulation over the South Konkan region and adjacent areas of the East Central Arabian Sea. This system is also expected to generate strong winds, with gusts reaching speeds of 50 to 60 km/h in isolated areas.

A Red Alert—indicating the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall—has been issued for Raigad on May 23 and Ratnagiri on May 22 and 23. Meanwhile, an Orange Alert remains in place for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Sindhudurg, and the ghat regions of Pune and Satara, highlighting the risk of heavy rainfall coupled with thunderstorms and gusty winds.

Navi Mumbai also witnessed foggy and overcast weather this morning, with the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) issuing an orange alert in response to low visibility and the potential for further heavy rainfall.

The IMD reported overcast skies and a possibility of heavy showers for Mumbai today, with a recorded temperature of 29°C and humidity levels at 76% as of 9 AM. The wind speed stood at 3 km/h, and while precipitation remained minimal early in the day, conditions are expected to worsen by evening.

The weather on May 24 is predicted to mirror today’s conditions, with temperatures between 24°C and 30°C. Heavy rainfall or thundershowers are

Meteorologists attribute this unusual pre-monsoon activity to a cyclonic circulation in the Arabian Sea. According to Shubhangi Bhute from the IMD, the system has caused widespread moisture influx, leading to increased rainfall and storm activity across Maharashtra. Residents are urged to remain cautious, especially in low-lying or flood-prone areas.

Authorities have advised citizens to stay updated via official weather bulletins and avoid non-essential travel during the alert periods.