Mumbai woke up to severe rainfall and widespread waterlogging on Sunday morning, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported 120.8 mm of rainfall in Colaba and 83.8 mm in Santacruz within 24 hours. The IMD has now issued a red alert for the city and nearby districts, cautioning residents about continued heavy to very heavy rain in the coming days.
Flooding Brings Traffic to a Standstill
Heavy waterlogging caused major disruptions across Mumbai, with key roads in Andheri, Sion, and Borivali submerged. Subways and underpasses in low-lying areas were particularly affected. Local train services were delayed or halted in several areas due to flooded tracks, and alternative traffic routes have been activated to manage congestion. Airlines also released travel advisories, warning of possible flight delays due to poor weather conditions.
“The ongoing rain activity is the result of a low pressure developed over the Bay of Bengal. As a result, Mumbai, along with several parts of Maharashtra will continue to see heavy to very heavy rainfall activity throughout the day,” an official said.
Authorities on High Alert
The IMD’s red alert remains active until at least September 30, urging citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and stay updated through official weather bulletins. Municipal authorities have mobilized disaster response teams and emergency personnel to tackle flooding, rescue operations, and drainage issues in vulnerable zones. Temporary shelters and emergency control rooms have also been set up.
A civic official said, quoting the IMD’s forecast issued at 8 a.m., said Mumbai will witness “cloudy sky with heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied with thunderstorm/lightning and gusty winds reaching 40-50kmph very likely in the city & suburbs.” There was a “possibility of extremely heavy rain at isolated places,” as per the weather department.
Schools Shut, Services Hit as Rain Disrupts Daily Life
Municipal authorities announced closure of schools and offices in severely affected areas as a precautionary measure. In many low-lying residential colonies, homes and shops on ground floors have been inundated. Power cuts and intermittent disruptions to essential services like water supply and waste management have also been reported in multiple wards.
More Rain on the Horizon
Meteorologists warn that Mumbai may face additional spells of intense rainfall in the coming days due to a developing weather system over the Bay of Bengal. Areas already dealing with waterlogging could be pushed to the brink if rain persists, with further strain expected on the city’s drainage system.
Safety Advisory Issued
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Avoid non-essential travel, especially during peak rainfall hours.
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Stay informed through IMD updates and BMC alerts.
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Avoid flooded roads and underpasses; stick to higher routes.
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Keep emergency supplies like torches, medicines, and dry food ready.
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Check in on elderly neighbors and those in low-lying areas.