Mumbai: The 'maximum city' is experiencing intense rainfall from the night of August 15 into the early hours of August 16, marking one of the heaviest monsoon spells this season.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that rainfall exceeded 200mm in several regions, with Vikhroli receiving the highest at 248.5 mm, followed by Santacruz with 232.5 mm and Sion at 221 mm.
Other areas such as Juhu, Bandra, and Byculla also recorded significant amounts. Civic authorities compiled rainfall data showing averages of 99.61 mm in the city division, 142.80 mm in eastern suburbs, and 144.57 mm in western suburbs between 8 am on August 15 and 4 am on August 16. Some areas experienced extreme rainfall intensity, with Ghatkopar's Ramabai Municipal School recording 49 mm in just one hour.
Visuals: Waterlogging In City
Despite the heavy downpour, Mumbai’s suburban train services remained largely operational with minimal delays, and road traffic disruptions were manageable, although waterlogging affected low-lying areas like Sion and Andheri.
The Mumbai police advised residents to avoid non-essential travel due to waterlogging and poor visibility, ensuring citizens could reach emergency services if needed. With more rain expected, officials warned residents, particularly in flood-prone zones, to remain vigilant as the city prepared for ongoing wet weather conditions.
IMD Issues Red Alert
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Ratnagiri, Raigad, Mumbai City, Mumbai Suburban, Thane, and Palghar, forecasting moderate to intense rain for the next three to four hours. Heavy rainfall led to severe waterlogging in parts of Mumbai, notably Gandhi Nagar, Kings Circle, and Sion Railway Station.
Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani directed BMC officials to coordinate emergency measures. A landslide in Vikhroli resulted in two fatalities and two injuries. In Himachal Pradesh, the monsoon death toll has reached 257, with 133 rain-related deaths. Many roads remain blocked, and numerous electricity and water supply services are disrupted due to weather conditions.
