IMD warns of heavy rain in Maharashtra after Mumbai logs 53 mm in 24 hours

On Thursday 14 August, Mumbai registered its highest single-day rainfall of the month at 53 mm, ending weeks of a dry spell. India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Yellow Alert for Mumbai on August 14 and 16, with an Orange Alert for August 17. Meanwhile, Raigad and Ratnagiri will be under Orange Alert on August 14, 16, 17 and 18.

For Friday, August 15, when many places will see flag hoisting and other Independence Day celebrations, no warning has been issued, but Mumbai residents are advised to remain cautious.

Between Wednesday night and Thursday morning, Santacruz recorded 50 mm of rain while Colaba logged 53 mm. Western suburbs saw the highest average rainfall at 41.4 mm, followed by 32.4 mm in the eastern suburbs and 21 mm in the island city. Malad reported the most intense downpour with 85 mm, followed by Andheri with 72 mm and Powai with 70 mm, according to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) data. 

Overnight showers caused waterlogging in several areas, affecting traffic and slowing vehicle movement on major roads.

The IMD has linked the surge in rainfall to active weather systems in the region, predicting heavy showers across Maharashtra, including the Konkan belt, between August 13 and 19.