Why is the MeT Department Issuing a Red Alert in Mumbai?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Red Alert signifies severe weather conditions.
- Expect heavy rainfall and gusty winds.
- Traffic disruptions and waterlogging are likely.
- Monitor local advisories for updates.
- Prioritize safety and avoid unnecessary travel.
Mumbai, September 15 (NationPress) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a Red Alert Warning for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) early Monday morning, indicating severe weather conditions for the next three hours.
The BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) announced on X, “Expect intense to very intense rain and thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds reaching 30-40 kmph. For any assistance or official updates, please contact 1916, the BMC Control Room.”
As a result of the warnings from IMD and BMC, residents of Mumbai should prepare for traffic congestion and waterlogging while commuting via suburban local trains, public transport, or personal vehicles.
The IMD also alerted about heavy rainfall in the Raigad district and throughout the state for the following two days. An orange alert has been issued for the entire Konkan belt today, with heavy rains and lightning also expected in Marathwada and Vidarbha.
The importance of these advisories cannot be overstated, as Mumbai and its suburbs have experienced heavy rainfall since last night, with significantly increased intensity this morning that has affected visibility on the roads.
Owing to the ongoing rains, waterlogging is anticipated in low-lying areas of Mumbai. Local train services have faced disruptions due to the heavy rain, with water accumulating at Matunga railway station. Currently, local trains on the Central Railway route are delayed by 10 to 15 minutes, while those on the Harbour Railway route are running five to ten minutes late. The Western Railway route has also been impacted, resulting in delays.
In South Mumbai, low-lying areas such as Hindmata, Kings Circle, Dadar, Five Gardens, Swaminarayan Mandir, JJ Flyover, and Matunga are facing significant waterlogging.
The Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation reported a technical issue with one of its mono trains. “In accordance with safety protocols, all 17 passengers were safely transferred to another train and taken to the next station by 7.40 AM. The affected train is being towed. Services from Sant Gadge Maharaj Chowk to Wadala are operational on a single line with delays. Wadala to Chembur services are running, and normal services will resume shortly from Wadala to Sant Gadge Maharaj Chowk. Passenger safety is our utmost priority. Thank you for your understanding.”