Red, orange alerts issued for heavy rainfall in Maharashtra districts
What's the story
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts for heavy rainfall in several districts of Maharashtra, including Mumbai. The warning comes as the state continues to experience heavy downpours for the third consecutive day. Nashik, Palghar, Thane, Mumbai City and Suburban, Raigad, and Pune are among the districts under a red alert.
Rainfall impact
Heavy rains recorded in Mumbai on Sunday
Mumbai has been witnessing heavy rains since Saturday night, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reporting over 50mm of rainfall in some areas between 8:00am and 1:00pm on Sunday. The island city received an average of 47.47mm of rainfall, while western and eastern suburbs recorded 53.61mm and 37.92mm, respectively, during this period. Meanwhile, Palghar district has been put on red alert by IMD for possible extremely heavy rain at isolated locations on September 29.
Precautionary measures
Holiday for schools in Palghar district
In light of the IMD's forecast, Palghar district collector Manik Gursal declared a holiday for all government and private schools on Monday. The decision was taken to ensure the safety of students and staff amid fears of flooding and waterlogging. Education officials have been directed to strictly comply with this order, while teachers are advised to remain alert for any emergency relief measures.
Ongoing weather conditions
Heavy rains to continue across Maharashtra
The IMD has predicted spells of heavy rainfall over isolated areas across all districts in Maharashtra till October 3. Parbhani, Hingoli, Nanded, Latur, and Kolhapur's ghats will witness heavy rains with thunderstorms and gusty winds. The recent downpour has already claimed five lives in the past 24 hours across different districts of Maharashtra.
Relief efforts
Over 11,000 people moved to safer places
Over 11,000 people have been moved to safer places by authorities till Sunday evening. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reviewed relief operations in Marathwada and Solapur, directing district collectors to provide essential aid. Deputy CM Eknath Shinde also reviewed conditions in Thane and Palghar districts, assuring that "the administration is on high alert."