Early Monsoon Brings Heavy Rains, Waterlogging to Mumbai; Red Alert in Coastal Karnataka

Early Monsoon Brings Heavy Rains, Waterlogging to Mumbai; Red Alert in Coastal Karnataka

*May 29, 2024* — In an early and powerful onset, the monsoon has battered Mumbai and the western coast of India, unleashing heavy rainfall, widespread waterlogging, and disruptions in several states. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for coastal Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra as the wet spell is forecast to continue through June 1.

Mumbai Faces Waterlogging as Monsoon Arrives Early

Mumbai, India’s financial hub, has witnessed intense rainfall since the early hours of May 29, leading to waterlogged streets, disrupted commutes, and deepening concerns about urban flooding. The downpours, driven by the southwest monsoon pushing further inland, have caused low-lying areas to flood, challenging municipal authorities’ readiness. Visual evidence from new satellite images shows large swathes of the Mumbai metropolitan region blanketed by dense cloud cover and heavy precipitation.

While a yellow alert remains in force for Mumbai, the IMD warns that continued showers may exacerbate drainage issues and traffic snarls. According to reports, waterlogging has been particularly problematic in areas with poor infrastructure. Commuters faced delays as railway tracks and major roads experienced significant water accumulation. Authorities are on high alert, monitoring vulnerable areas for potential emergencies.

Red Alerts Across West Coast: Coastal Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra

The IMD has escalated warnings to the highest level—red alerts—in coastal Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra, signaling “extremely heavy rainfall” and a heightened risk of flooding or landslides. The alerts are in effect till May 30, with the likelihood of persistent strong rains projected for the region at least until June 1.

Officials in Karnataka are bracing for the impact, particularly along the coastal districts, where downpours often lead to river swelling and landslides in hilly areas. In Kerala, another state accustomed to monsoon havoc, the rains have uprooted trees in Kannur and caused hazardous conditions, according to live updates.

Kerala Sees Havoc as Rain Batters West Coast

Severe rainfall is also ongoing in Kerala, where authorities have reported numerous incidents of fallen trees and localized flooding. The persistent showers have hindered daily life and raised concerns over further disruption if the rains do not subside soon.

IMD Forecasts More Rain Till June 1

The IMD indicates that this early monsoon surge is likely to continue, with heavy rainfall expected across affected regions through June 1. Residents of Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka are advised to remain prepared for further downpours and rapidly changing weather conditions.

Authorities urge citizens to stay indoors where possible, avoid waterlogged and landslide-prone routes, and pay attention to official advisories. Disaster response teams are on standby, and continuous monitoring is underway to mitigate the risks associated with monsoon-related hazards.

Conclusion

The early and intense arrival of the monsoon in India’s west coast has already left its imprint, particularly in Mumbai, Kerala, and coastal Karnataka. As red alerts remain active, local administrations are ramping up efforts to address waterlogging, ensure public safety, and provide timely updates for communities in the path of the heavy rains. For more detailed weather updates and emergency notifications, residents are encouraged to follow the latest IMD advisories and local government guidance.