Mumbai Braces for Heavy Rain After IMD Issues Red Alert, Widespread Waterlogging Reported
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Mumbai and neighbouring Raigad district, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places on Sunday, following a day of incessant downpours that left large parts of the city waterlogged.
The alert, issued on July 5, 2026, comes after Mumbai recorded over 200 mm of rainfall within ten hours on July 4. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reported that the city received exceptionally heavy precipitation between 8:00 am on July 4 and 7:00 am on July 5, with the eastern suburbs bearing the brunt. Vikhroli West recorded the highest rainfall at 306.6 mm, followed by Tagore Nagar Municipal School in Vikhroli at 298.2 mm, Paspoli Powai Municipal School at 284.0 mm, and Vikhroli Fire Station at 283.6 mm.
The BMC has urged residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, especially in low-lying areas prone to flooding. Authorities have deployed pumps to drain water from roads and are monitoring the situation closely. The IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea along the Maharashtra coast as conditions are likely to remain rough.
The red alert indicates a high probability of extremely heavy rainfall, which could lead to further waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and potential damage to property. Citizens have been advised to follow safety precautions and stay updated through official channels.
Mumbai's infrastructure has been strained during monsoon seasons in the past, and the current spell of rain has once again highlighted the challenges faced by the city in managing heavy rainfall. The civic body has assured that all necessary measures are being taken to minimise inconvenience.
