Mumbai & neighbouring districts to get heavy rain in next 36 hours; Orange alert issued

Mumbai is grappling with intense monsoon fury as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues an orange alert, forecasting more than 150 mm of rainfall in the next 24-36 hours. Weather stations at Colaba and Santacruz have already recorded 87 mm and 85 mm respectively in the past day, with localised deluges crossing 100 mm in areas like Malabar Hill and Fort.

The downpour has engulfed not just Mumbai but neighbouring Thane, Palghar and Raigad districts as well, prompting the IMD to issue fresh nowcast warnings. 

The downpour has led to waterlogging, tree collapses, and partial structure damage, with 11 tree falls (mostly in western suburbs) and 7 short-circuit incidents reported. A landslide in Bhandup caused houses to collapse, but no casualties were reported.

Mumbai Traffic Police shut down the Andheri Subway due to 1.5 ft waterlogging, diverting vehicles via Gokhale and Thackeray bridges. Central and Harbour line trains faced delays, while Western line services remain unaffected.

The India Meteorological Department warns of continued heavy rainfall across Mumbai until July 26, with high tides potentially exacerbating flooding risks. The region could receive over 150mm of precipitation in the next 36 hours, likely causing further disruptions to daily life.

The alert extends to neighbouring areas, including Pune, Raigad, Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri, and Goa, where heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast in coming days. Authorities urge residents to exercise caution, avoid waterlogged areas, and stay updated on weather advisories.