Mumbai Rains: IMD Issues Yellow Alert Amid Unseasonal Showers and Thunderstorms Across Maharashtra

Mumbai | May 9, 2025: In an unexpected turn of weather events, Mumbai and several regions across Maharashtra are witnessing unseasonal rainfall, overcast skies, and thunderstorms, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a yellow alert for multiple districts. The recent showers, attributed to a western disturbance, have brought cooler temperatures and increased humidity to the state.

According to the IMD’s latest bulletin, Mumbai is likely to see moderate to heavy rainfall, particularly in the suburban areas, with temperatures ranging between 24°C and 30°C. The Santacruz observatory recorded 32 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours—significant for the pre-monsoon period. While the maximum temperature touched 32.6°C, slightly above normal, the minimum dipped to 20.6°C, notably below average. Humidity levels were reported at 81% in the morning and 61% by evening, resulting in a muggy atmosphere.

The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Mumbai and nearby districts, including Thane, Raigad, and Palghar, warning of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and strong winds, particularly during the late afternoon and evening hours. These conditions are expected to persist until May 10, after which the intensity of rain is likely to subside.

Light to moderate rainfall is expected in several parts of the state, including Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Ahilyanagar, Pune, Sangli, Solapur, Jalna, Nanded, Latur, and Dharashiv. Meanwhile, regions like Dhule, Jalgaon, Nashik, Kolhapur, Satara, and parts of Vidarbha may experience gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph.

Conversely, some districts such as Parbhani, Beed, and Hingoli are forecast to remain dry, with no significant alerts issued for Akola, Amravati, Buldhana, and Washim.

Meteorologists attribute this unusual weather to a western disturbance—typically linked to winter rains in northern India—that has caused moisture-laden winds to sweep across the Konkan region, triggering rains in Mumbai and adjacent areas. Such disturbances are rare in May and have contributed to the extended wet spell in the city.

The IMD forecasts thunderstorms and showers for May 9, with cloudy skies and lighter rain expected by May 10. Conditions are likely to improve from May 11 onwards, with partly cloudy skies and intermittent sunshine predicted through May 14.

Authorities urge residents to stay alert, avoid exposed areas during thunderstorms, and monitor official advisories. Commuters are advised to account for potential traffic disruptions and waterlogging in low-lying areas.