Mumbai experienced a sudden spell of heavy rainfall on Saturday morning, leading to widespread waterlogging and severe disruption of daily life. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an Orange Alert for Mumbai and surrounding regions, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds over the next 24 hours.
Impact Across Mumbai
Several parts of the city reported waterlogging, including low-lying areas such as Andheri subway, Sion, King’s Circle, and parts of the Western Express Highway. Local train services on Central and Western lines faced delays, with suburban commuters struggling to reach their destinations. BEST buses were diverted from flooded routes, adding to the traffic snarls across major junctions.
Our correspondent adds that flight operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport were also briefly disrupted, with delays reported in both arrivals and departures due to reduced visibility and strong winds. Authorities advised passengers to check flight status before leaving for the airport.
IMD Weather Advisory
According to the IMD bulletin, Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad districts will witness “heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places” with thunderstorms and lightning until Sunday morning. The department urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, especially near coastal areas, riverbanks, and flood-prone zones.
The Orange Alert also covers nearby Konkan belt districts where intense rain is expected to continue. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the Arabian Sea due to rough conditions and high waves.
Civic and Administrative Response
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said all disaster management teams and pumping stations are on high alert to deal with waterlogging complaints. Control rooms are functioning round the clock, and rescue boats have been deployed in vulnerable areas.
BMC officials said additional pumps have been stationed at chronic flooding spots, while dewatering operations have already begun at several locations. The civic body has also kept temporary shelters ready in case residents from low-lying areas need to be evacuated.
The Maharashtra State Disaster Management Authority (MSDMA) is monitoring the situation closely and coordinating with railway and airport authorities to minimize disruption.
Citizens Advised Caution
Residents have been urged to remain indoors during intense spells of rain. Schools and colleges in some wards have been advised to shift to online classes for the day. The BMC has appealed to citizens not to believe in rumors and to rely on official updates through its social media handles and helpline numbers.
Experts have warned that the combination of high tides and heavy rainfall could worsen waterlogging in the city. Saturday’s high tide of 4.6 meters around noon coincided with the downpour, leading to quicker accumulation of water in several areas.
Our correspondent adds that meteorologists have noted that the Konkan and Mumbai region is in the grip of an active monsoon phase, and heavy rainfall may continue intermittently over the next 72 hours. IMD has placed Mumbai and Thane under Orange Alert until Sunday, while isolated parts of Raigad and Ratnagiri may face Red Alert conditions if rainfall intensifies further.
