Mumbai Receives Monsoon 15 Days Early, Red Alert Issued Amidst Heavy Rainfall.
Mumbai: Mumbai's monsoon season arrived 15 days ahead of schedule, breaking all previous records. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the southwest monsoon reached Mumbai on Monday, May 26th. This is the earliest monsoon arrival in the city in the last 75 years. The typical arrival date is June 11th.
IMD scientist Sushma Nair stated that this early monsoon arrival is unprecedented in 75 years. Heavy rainfall has commenced, significantly impacting daily life. Red and orange alerts have been issued for heavy rainfall across several districts of Maharashtra.
Alerts Issued for Mumbai and Several Maharashtra Districts
S.D. Sanap, head of the IMD's Pune division, reported that the monsoon has arrived earlier than expected in Maharashtra. The monsoon trough currently extends from Mumbai to Pune, Solapur, and eastward. An orange alert will remain in effect for most districts of Konkan and Goa, as well as the Ghat regions, for the next two days.
The IMD warned that torrential rain will continue in Mumbai and surrounding areas for the next two days, after which the intensity may decrease. However, people are advised to remain vigilant.
Red Alert Prompts Warning from Eknath Shinde
Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, held a review meeting with the disaster management department in response to the heavy rainfall. He stated that a red alert has been issued due to the intense rainfall in Mumbai. The government's primary goal is to prevent any loss of life. He emphasized that the government is on high alert and closely monitoring the situation.
Shinde stated that all departments have been alerted to prevent any untoward incidents during the rainfall. He appealed to the public to only venture out when necessary and exercise caution during the rains.
Mumbai's Daily Life Affected by Rainfall
Heavy rainfall has caused waterlogging in several areas of Mumbai, affecting local trains and road traffic. Several trains have been cancelled, and others are delayed. Waterlogged roads have led to significant traffic congestion.
Schools and offices are also experiencing disruptions. Many companies have allowed their employees to work from home to avoid commuting difficulties.