Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, May 21: As pre-monsoon showers gain momentum across Maharashtra, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued multiple alerts, warning of continued intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds until May 24. Mumbai and surrounding districts are under yellow alerts, while the southern coastal district of Sindhudurg has been placed under a red alert for May 21, signalling the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall.

According to IMD officials, the current spell of turbulent weather is attributed to a developing cyclonic circulation near the Karnataka coast, which is expected to intensify further. A low-pressure area is likely to form over the east-central Arabian Sea by May 22, which could lead to an escalation in rainfall activity across the Konkan and Madhya Maharashtra regions from May 19 to 25.

“There is a possibility of heavy rainfall with thunder at some places, accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph or higher at isolated locations,” stated IMD official Shubhangi Bhute.

While the rains brought a welcome break from the blistering summer temperatures, they have also caused widespread disruption across Mumbai and neighbouring areas. A tragic incident occurred in Kalyan, where a building collapsed due to incessant rain, claiming six lives.

Waterlogging was reported in several pockets of Mumbai following Tuesday evening’s sudden downpour. In Pune district, a large hoarding collapsed near Sanswadi along the Pune-Ahilyanagar route, trapping multiple vehicles. Meanwhile, Andheri subway saw traffic brought to a standstill due to severe water accumulation.

Authorities also recorded incidents of tree falls and electrical short circuits in the city, although no casualties were reported beyond the Kalyan tragedy.

Elsewhere in the state, stormy conditions wreaked havoc in the Rawanwadi eco-tourism area of Bhandara tehsil. Forest guard Vijay Raut reported that around 400–500 trees were uprooted, damaging several electric poles and government infrastructure. The storm also blew off the roofs of several homes, dealing a blow to local tourism.

Civic officials have urged residents to remain vigilant, especially in areas with ongoing construction or ageing infrastructure vulnerable to collapse under extreme weather conditions.

Mumbai recorded a high of 29°C on May 21, with 76% humidity and light winds. IMD data indicated 55% precipitation by 9 a.m. Temperatures are expected to hover between 27°C and 33°C, with overcast skies providing intermittent relief from the heat.

For May 22, overcast skies will persist with heavy rain likely in the evening or night. Temperatures may dip slightly, ranging between 24°C and 31°C. The IMD notes that rainfall remains scattered, with some areas receiving moderate showers.

With monsoon activity beginning to assert itself, the next few days are expected to remain wet and windy across Maharashtra. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have assured prompt response to emergencies.