Mumbai, September 26, 2024 - Severe downpours have brought Mumbai and its adjoining areas to a virtual halt, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and Raigad, effective until 8:30 AM today.
The unyielding rainfall has led to significant disruptions throughout the city:
• Education : The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has mandated the closure of all schools and colleges for the day.
• Transportation : Mumbai's essential local train services have faced substantial interruptions. Additionally, at least 14 arriving flights were diverted due to adverse weather conditions at Mumbai airport.
• Infrastructure : Extensive waterlogging has been reported in numerous low-lying areas, and a landslide on the Mumbra bypass in Thane on September 25 resulted in a three-hour traffic delay.
Mumbai Police have advised residents to remain indoors unless absolutely necessary. The IMD forecasts the possibility of isolated heavy rainfall persisting in the region until September 27.
This extreme weather episode underscores Mumbai's susceptibility to monsoon flooding, a recurrent issue for the coastal metropolis. Emergency services are on high alert, actively addressing the challenges posed by the ongoing downpour.
Authorities are vigilantly monitoring weather developments and infrastructure vulnerabilities as the situation unfolds. Residents are urged to follow local news and official notifications for further updates and safety guidelines.