Mumbai is experiencing heavy rainfall amidst forecasts of an early monsoon, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a yellow alert for the city and surrounding areas. This pre-monsoon activity, arriving unusually early in May, has already resulted in substantial rainfall, exceeding the typical monthly average.
The IMD has predicted light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds for Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar districts until May 27. While the initial orange alert was downgraded to a yellow alert, indicating a reduction in the expected intensity of rainfall, residents are still advised to remain vigilant. Raigad district, however, remains under an orange alert, anticipating heavy showers over the next five days.
The early arrival of pre-monsoon showers has been a notable feature of this May. Independent weather experts point out that Mumbai's average rainfall in May is typically around 12 mm, making the current widespread rain an anomaly. Rainfall totals have already reached close to 50 mm, a level unseen since the early 2000s, excluding the exceptional rainfall caused by Cyclone Tauktae in 2021.
The southwest monsoon has officially arrived in Kerala on May 24, marking its earliest onset since 2009. The IMD anticipates the monsoon to advance towards Maharashtra soon, with favorable climatic conditions expected over the next few days. While the official monsoon onset date for Mumbai is June 11, some independent forecasters predict an earlier arrival, potentially around the first few days of June.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is taking precautionary measures to mitigate potential issues caused by the heavy rainfall. The BMC is set to deploy vehicle-mounted dewatering pumps in flood-prone areas to prevent waterlogging and ensure smooth traffic flow.
The heavy rainfall and early monsoon forecast have led to warnings for residents and authorities to prepare for potential disruptions. The IMD has advised monitoring shipping activities and tourism along the coast, and fishing operations have been temporarily suspended. Residents are urged to stay away from rivers and waterfalls as a safety precaution.
While the early monsoon onset in Kerala doesn't guarantee the same pattern across the country, the current weather conditions suggest Mumbai could experience an earlier than usual monsoon. The IMD has issued a light to moderate rainfall warning for Mumbai until June 20, suggesting continued showers leading up to the monsoon's formal arrival.
