Mumbai on High Alert: IMD Warns of Extremely Heavy Rainfall on Sunday — Citizens Urged to Stay Indoors

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Mumbai and several adjoining districts, warning of extremely heavy rainfall expected on Sunday. The alert covers Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, and Palghar, placing millions of residents under a weather warning that signifies very high risk of flooding, transport disruptions, and potential emergencies.

Despite relatively moderate showers on Saturday, authorities caution that weather conditions may deteriorate rapidly, with intense cloud bands expected to hover over the city and coastal Maharashtra region.

Rainfall Pattern So Far

Between Friday and Saturday morning, Mumbai’s:

• Island city recorded around 30 mm of rain
• Eastern suburbs received nearly 26 mm
• Western suburbs saw approximately 10 mm

While these numbers suggest mild to moderate rainfall, the IMD says Sunday could see multiple heavy downpours within short intervals, increasing the risk of flash flooding.

What to Expect on Sunday

According to the forecast:

• Mumbai and surrounding coastal districts may experience sudden, prolonged cloudbursts
• Heavy winds and thunder may accompany rainfall in some pockets
• Ghats and hilly terrain — especially in Nashik and Ratnagiri zones — face landslide risks
• Interior Maharashtra districts like Marathwada, Vidarbha, and central regions may see only light to moderate showers

Possible Disruptions

Authorities are preparing for:

• Localized flooding in low-lying areas such as Sion, Kurla, Dadar, Andheri Subway, Milan Subway, and parts of Navi Mumbai
• Slowdowns or diversions in suburban train services, particularly on Central and Harbour lines
• Traffic congestion due to waterlogging, especially on Eastern and Western Express Highways
• Temporary power cuts or communication outages during intense spells

Citizens are advised not to park vehicles under trees or weak structures, as strong winds may lead to damage or falling debris.

Official Advisory for Residents

Disaster management teams have urged people to:

• Avoid stepping out unless absolutely necessary
• Stock essential supplies, including drinking water, medicines, power backups, and charged mobile phones
• Stay away from sea-facing locations, promenades, and river banks
• Report hazards immediately to civic helplines if trees fall or drains overflow
• Keep children and senior citizens indoors

Fishermen have been advised to stay off the coast, as sea conditions may turn rough.

Preparedness by Authorities

Municipal corporations have deployed pumping stations, emergency rescue vans, and rapid-response teams across flood-prone zones. Control rooms in Mumbai and Thane are operating round the clock, coordinating with railway officials, police departments, and fire brigades.

Final Word

Sunday’s weather could test Mumbai’s resilience once again. While citizens are used to monsoon extremes, officials stress that early caution may prevent avoidable crises. Residents are encouraged to follow only official alerts, avoid rumors, and stay indoors until conditions stabilize.