Mumbai hit by earliest monsoon in 75 years; heavy rains leave 6 dead in Maharashtra and Goa

Mumbai Hit by Earliest Monsoon in 75 Years; Heavy Rains Leave 6 Dead in Maharashtra and Goa

*Mumbai, May 26, 2024* — The city of Mumbai has been lashed by the earliest arrival of the southwest monsoon in 75 years, with unprecedented heavy rainfall causing severe disruption across the region. The intense downpours have resulted in at least six deaths across Maharashtra and neighbouring Goa, with flooding, transportation chaos, and property damage reported in several districts.

Monsoon Arrives Historically Early

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the southwest monsoon made landfall in Mumbai much earlier than usual, marking the earliest onset in the city since records began 75 years ago. The IMD has issued a red alert for the city, citing risks of extremely heavy rainfall and related hazards. Mumbai has broken a 107-year rainfall record, with unprecedented precipitation recorded in just a short span, according to CNBC TV18.

Impact Across Western India

The early and intense rains have not been limited to Mumbai. The states of Maharashtra, Goa, and Kerala have experienced widespread havoc due to the deluge. The Hindu reports that heavy rains continue to cause major disruptions, particularly in Maharashtra and Kerala, while NewsX confirmed at least six fatalities have occurred across four states, including Maharashtra and Goa.

Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, attributed the chaos to the unusually early arrival of the monsoon and the exceptional volume of rain within a compressed timeframe (Hindustan Times). The heavy downpours have overwhelmed infrastructure, leading to waterlogging, road closures, and damage to homes and businesses.

Transportation Paralyzed

Mumbai’s transport systems have borne the brunt of the weather. The flooding resulted in significant delays and cancellations for both suburban trains and flights. According to Mint, rail services were disrupted on key lines, leaving thousands of commuters stranded at stations. The situation at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport saw multiple flights delayed, further inconveniencing travelers.

Roads throughout Mumbai and neighbouring districts were inundated, causing massive traffic congestion. Authorities have urged residents to remain indoors where possible, and emergency teams have been deployed to assist stranded citizens.

Response and Ongoing Risks

Emergency services across Maharashtra and Goa are working to restore normalcy, with rescue operations underway in the worst-hit localities. Residents have reported water entering homes, damage to vehicles, and prolonged power outages. The IMD’s red alert remains in effect, warning of further heavy rainfall that could aggravate the situation.

Despite the challenges, local authorities have mobilized resources to clear waterlogged roads and assist affected families. Relief camps have been set up in some districts, and the state government is closely monitoring the situation.

Looking Ahead

With the monsoon just beginning, officials and meteorologists urge continued caution, as the risk of further heavy rainfall and flooding remains high in the coming weeks. The early arrival has raised concerns about the broader seasonal pattern and the preparedness of the city’s infrastructure to handle such events.

Key Takeaways:

– Mumbai hit by the earliest monsoon in 75 years; IMD issues red alert.
– At least six people have died in Maharashtra, Goa, and other affected areas.
– Record-breaking rainfall overwhelms city infrastructure, paralyzes transport, and causes widespread disruption.
– Emergency services remain on high alert as more rain is forecast.

As residents brace for more rain, authorities are emphasizing the importance of preparedness and caution during what is shaping up to be an extraordinary monsoon season.