Mumbai, April 21 (NationPress) The Maharashtra government has declared an urgent high-alert for the coming hours. Areas including Mumbai, Mumbai Suburbs, Palghar, Raigad, and Thane are predicted to face light rainfall, strong winds, and severe lightning.

This advisory follows a five-day weather forecast released by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), which anticipates a period of unstable weather across Maharashtra from April 20 to April 24. Residents should prepare for gusty winds, lightning, thunderstorms, and potential hailstorms in multiple districts.

As reported by government officials, after experiencing a day of intense heat and cloudiness, Yavatmal saw a dramatic weather change late at night. Thunderstorms and unexpected rain swept through numerous areas, offering a welcome respite from the high humidity.

However, the storms resulted in extensive power outages and raised alarm regarding the safety of fruit crops, particularly mangoes and summer sesame.

In Parbhani, severe lightning and heavy unseasonal rain hit the district at midnight. While the rainfall brought cooler temperatures, the fierce winds caused power disruptions in several regions.

Local farmers are concerned about potential harm to orchards, vegetable harvests, and especially the native Gavran mango varieties, which have already been affected by ongoing weather variability this season.

The authorities have urged the public to stay alert and adhere to safety measures during lightning events.

Residents are advised to seek shelter indoors or in safe structures immediately upon hearing thunder, keep away from trees, open fields, water bodies, and metallic items, avoid using mobile phones or electronic devices outdoors, and if caught outside without shelter, crouch low with feet together rather than lying flat on the ground.

The State Emergency Operations Centre has directed all relevant agencies to be on high alert. Local bodies, including Gram Panchayats, Police, and Health Departments, are responsible for the immediate dissemination of warnings. Emergency services such as ambulances, fire brigades, and disaster management teams are to remain vigilant. Public facilities like schools, community halls, and other buildings are to be made available for those needing shelter.

Farmers are encouraged to halt fieldwork during lightning alerts, and any construction activities should be temporarily suspended. The administration has also requested the immediate cancellation of fairs, religious events, and large gatherings to ensure public safety.

Residents are urged to rely solely on official updates and avoid sharing or believing rumors during this challenging weather period, as stated in the government release.