Mumbai:

Mumbai appeared poised to experience its earliest recorded monsoon arrival, as forecasts from the India Meteorological Department indicated that the seasonal rains could occur within the next three days. Should this occur, the city would surpass the previous record onset date of May 29, observed in 1956, 1962, and 1971.

By May 25, the southwest monsoon had already advanced to Devgad in Konkan, arriving nearly ten days ahead of the typical June 5 onset for Maharashtra and Goa. The unusually early progress of the monsoon system signalled a significant shift in seasonal patterns, prompting heightened readiness across coastal regions.

Heavy rains disrupt normalcy in Mumbai; yellow alert in effect

A yellow alert remained in effect for Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar, forecasting continued heavy rainfall through the day. Meanwhile, an orange alert, signalling more intense conditions was issued for Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg, where very heavy rainfall was anticipated. Meteorologists also warned of thunderstorms accompanied by strong gusts, with wind speeds expected to reach between 50 and 60 kilometres per hour in several parts of the state.

Overnight rainfall severely disrupted life in Mumbai, with persistent showers flooding key areas and throwing daily routines into disarray. Roads across neighbourhoods such as Kurla, Sion, Dadar, and Parel became impassable, submerged under waist-deep water that brought vehicular movement to a crawl. Public transport services also struggled under the strain of the downpour.

Mumbai areas that suffered highest rainfall; local trains also affected

South Mumbai bore the brunt of the morning deluge. Nariman Point registered 40 mm of rainfall within a single hour between 6 and 7 AM, while Grant Road recorded 36 mm. Colaba and Byculla followed closely with 31 mm and 21 mm respectively. Although the eastern and western suburbs reported lighter showers, municipal and emergency services remained on high alert as the rains persisted.

Railway services, vital to Mumbai’s commuting lifeline, faced significant delays due to waterlogged tracks. Suburban trains were running behind schedule by five to ten minutes earlier in the day, though normal operations had resumed by late morning.

The latest rainfall formed part of a broader weather trend that had brought intermittent heavy showers and flash flooding to the city over the past week.

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