Mumbai experienced its highest single-day rainfall of 53 mm on Thursday, signifying a notable shift after weeks of dry conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has released a yellow alert for Mumbai and its nearby districts until August 17, along with an orange alert for Raigad and Ratnagiri districts on August 16 and 17.
After a day of cloudy skies and light rain, steady rainfall took place overnight. Santacruz and Colaba recorded rainfall amounts of 50 mm and 53 mm, respectively. The western suburbs got an average of 41.4 mm of rain, the eastern suburbs had 32.4 mm, and the island city experienced 21 mm.
Some areas encountered significant rainfall, with Malad getting 85 mm, Andheri 72 mm, and Powai 70 mm, according to the BMC. This rainfall provides relief to the city, experiencing a lasting rainfall shortfall; the Santacruz observatory noted only 114 mm by August 14, significantly lower than the monthly average of 566 mm.
The IMD predicts increased rainfall in Maharashtra and the Konkan region from August 13 to August 19 because of multiple active weather systems, including a low-pressure zone over the northwestern Bay of Bengal. A connected upper air cyclonic circulation is anticipated to intensify, and an east-west trough is impacting heightened rainfall activity across the area. Meteorologists expect a return of significant rainfall during this time.
Low Water Levels In City
The city faces below-average rainfall, threatening water levels and raising concerns among residents about potential cuts in water and electricity. Infrastructure development delays are also anticipated. Water stocks have fluctuated around 89% since late July, with the highest recording of 89.38% on August 14, as the India Meteorological Department predicts light to moderate rains in the city.
