Mumbai weather update: IMD issues red alert; schools shut as heavy rain brings city to a standstill

Santacruz in Mumbai’s suburbs recorded a heavy 99 mm rainfall between Sunday and Monday morning, while the Colaba coastal observatory measured 38 mm, said the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) automatic weather stations reported the eastern suburbs as the wettest region with an average of 60.57 mm rainfall, followed by 52.30 mm in the western suburbs and 45 mm in the island city during the 8 am Sunday to 6 am Monday period.

Red warning issued for Mumbai 

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), via its Sachet portal, issued a red warning for Mumbai City, Mumbai Suburban, and Raigad districts, valid until noon. This alert indicates the risk of severe weather conditions and urges heightened caution across the affected areas.

Safety advisory from Mumbai police commissioner 

The Commissioner of Police, Greater Mumbai, urged residents to exercise caution as heavy rains continue. Advisories included avoiding non-essential travel, planning commutes carefully, and stepping out only when necessary. The police assured that officials and staff remain on high alert to assist residents. Emergency contact numbers 100, 112, and 103 were shared for immediate help in case of emergencies.

Expressway showed knee-deep water and stranded vehicles, highlighting the severity of the situation. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) recorded 19 tree falls, six short circuits, and two wall collapses on Sunday, although fortunately, no casualties were reported.

Schools shut in Mumbai, local train services hit 

In response to the worsening conditions, the BMC declared a holiday for all schools. The Greater Mumbai Police advised residents to avoid non-essential travel, urging commuters to “plan your commute with care and step out only if necessary.” Emergency services remain on high alert to respond to any incidents.

Local train services experienced delays due to waterlogging in certain areas; however, there were no reported diversions for BEST bus routes. 

While the IMD noted a brief reduction in rainfall intensity on Sunday morning, it cautioned that heavy showers are expected to resume in the next 3 to 4 hours