The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for multiple regions as Mumbai and Bengaluru experience heavy downpours. The alerts, ranging from yellow to red, cover various states including Karnataka, Maharashtra, Goa, and others, forecasting a week of intense weather conditions.
Bengaluru is grappling with the aftermath of significant rainfall that caused flooding and disruption. The IMD had issued an orange alert for the city, anticipating heavy rainfall between 11 cm and 20 cm. The city recorded 103 mm of rain in the past 24 hours. Waterlogging and traffic congestion have been widespread, especially in areas like Sai Layout, Hosur Road, and BTM Layout. Tragically, three rain-related deaths have been reported in Bengaluru, including two electrocutions and one wall collapse. The IMD has predicted heavy to very heavy rains over Karnataka until May 25, with extremely heavy rain expected in coastal areas until May 21.
In response to the heavy rainfall, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar mentioned that 210 flood-prone areas had been identified and work was underway to mitigate the issues. Citizens are advised to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
Mumbai is also experiencing heavy rainfall, bringing relief from the heat but causing disruptions. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Mumbai, Thane, and other areas in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), forecasting light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and gusty winds. A roadside hoarding collapsed due to the heavy rain, trapping several two-wheelers, though no casualties were reported. Waterlogging and traffic jams have been reported across the city. The weather department has warned of similar conditions for the next four days, with rainfall activity expected to intensify between May 21 and May 24.
Across Maharashtra, various alerts have been issued. A red alert is in place for the Sindhudurg district for May 24, indicating extremely heavy rainfall. An orange alert has been issued for several other districts including Pune and Ratnagiri. The increased rainfall is attributed to a cyclonic circulation expected to form over the east-central Arabian Sea off the Karnataka coast around May 22.
The IMD has also issued warnings for other parts of India. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected along the west coast, including Karnataka, Goa, and Kerala, between May 19 and 25. Northeastern states and parts of eastern India are also expected to receive significant rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.
In contrast to the heavy rainfall in the south and northeast, heatwave conditions are prevailing in parts of northwest India, particularly Rajasthan and Haryana. Temperatures have exceeded 45°C in several cities in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. The IMD has advised residents in these areas to take precautions against the extreme heat.
Given these severe weather conditions, the IMD has urged residents and travelers to stay vigilant. Those in rain-affected regions should be prepared for potential flooding, waterlogging, and travel delays. The agency has also advised people to stay indoors where possible and monitor official channels for updates and safety advisories.
