Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, May 23: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for Goa, Raigad, and Ratnagiri, warning of extremely heavy rainfall between May 23 and the weekend, as a low-pressure system over the east-central Arabian Sea intensifies off the Konkan-Goa coast.
Simultaneously, Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Sindhudurg, and the ghats of Pune and Satara are under an orange alert, with forecasts of heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 50–60 kmph, particularly on May 23 and 24.
According to Shubhangi Bhute, a senior official at the Regional Meteorological Centre, the developing low-pressure area is expected to intensify within 36 hours and move northwards, leading to a sharp spike in rainfall across the Konkan region.
“Sea conditions will remain rough to very rough from May 24 to 27. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea and those already out at sea must return to shore by May 23 afternoon,” the IMD bulletin warned.
In a significant development, the IMD said conditions are becoming favourable for the onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala in the next 2–3 days.
While the western coastline braces for deluge, the northern states continue to grapple with heatwave conditions. Severe heatwaves are likely to persist in West Rajasthan till May 24, with temperatures soaring above 45°C in some parts. Jammu, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and northern Madhya Pradesh are also expected to face extreme heat on May 23.
The IMD also predicted isolated hailstorms in Himachal Pradesh and heavy rain over Uttarakhand on May 23–24. A dust storm with wind speeds up to 50 kmph is likely over West Rajasthan during May 23–25.
• Residents in alert areas are urged to stay indoors during heavy rain and avoid waterlogged zones.
• Fishermen along the Maharashtra and Gujarat coasts must suspend operations till May 27.
• People in heatwave-affected regions are advised to stay hydrated and avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours.