Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, May 22: Residents of Mumbai witnessed a dramatic change in weather as heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning swept across the city on Wednesday evening, offering a welcome respite from the searing summer heat.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), these weather conditions are expected to persist through May 24, with the city placed under a yellow alert for the next two days.

On Thursday, May 22, the IMD forecasts overcast skies with moderate to heavy rainfall throughout the day. Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching 50–60 kmph may strike isolated parts of the city, according to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Mumbai.

Day temperatures are projected to range between 23°C in the morning and 32°C by the afternoon, making it a humid and unstable day weather-wise.

• Santacruz Observatory:

o Max: 32.3°C

o Min: 22.5°C

• Colaba Observatory:

o Max: 32.2°C

o Min: 24.4°C

These readings reflect typical pre-monsoon patterns, which are often accompanied by sudden spells of heavy showers and thunderstorms.

While Mumbai remains under a yellow alert, neighbouring Thane district has been placed under an orange alert for May 23, indicating heavy to very heavy rainfall with a higher risk of disruption. Palghar and Raigad are also under similar weather watches, with alerts extended from May 21 to May 23.

The IMD has warned of localized flooding, waterlogging, and traffic delays due to the rains and advised residents to take precautions.

The IMD reported heavy rainfall across several Indian states between 8:30 AM on Thursday and 5:30 AM on Friday, including:

• Konkan & Goa:

o Panjim (North Goa): 9 cm

o Mumbai (Santacruz): 3 cm

o Ratnagiri: 3 cm

• Madhya Maharashtra:

o Solapur: 4 cm

• Vidarbha:

o Nagpur (Sonegaon Airport): 3 cm

Other impacted regions include Gangetic West Bengal, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, and parts of Northeast India.

The IMD expects continued heavy to very heavy rainfall across parts of Kerala, Karnataka, and the western coastline, indicating the early onset of monsoon conditions in some areas.
With severe weather forecast for the next few days, Mumbai residents are advised to:

• Avoid waterlogged and low-lying areas.

• Stay indoors during thunderstorms and lightning.

• Monitor local updates and follow safety advisories from civic authorities.

• Exercise caution while commuting during peak rain hours.