Mumbai
oi-Prakash KL
Thousands of office-goers and commuters across Mumbai experienced a difficult start to the week on Monday as rain showers affected traffic movement and public transport services in several parts of the city.
Light rainfall was reported from key areas including Nariman Point, Fort, Borivali, Bhayandar and Breach Candy during the morning rush hour, leading to slower traffic and delays for those travelling to workplaces and educational institutions.
Light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast for Mumbai and Thane until June 11, impacting commutes, while farmers statewide are advised against premature sowing due to uncertain weather patterns.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms across Mumbai and neighbouring Thane district until June 11. The weather agency has also warned of gusty winds and lightning activity in parts of Maharashtra over the coming days.
According to the IMD’s latest weather bulletin issued on Monday, Mumbai and its suburbs are likely to witness intermittent spells of rain despite continuing warm and humid conditions. The maximum temperature is expected to reach around 35.8°C in the island city and 35.3°C in the suburbs.
Authorities have issued an alert for light to moderate showers and thundershowers in Mumbai and Thane, with weather conditions expected to remain unstable throughout the week. Residents have been advised to remain cautious during periods of heavy rainfall, especially when accompanied by strong winds and lightning.
Adding to concerns, the city is expected to witness a high tide of 3.83 metres at 5.13 pm on Monday. Earlier in the day, Mumbai recorded a high tide of 3.1 metres at 4.50 am, with sea levels subsequently receding to 1.71 metres. Civic authorities typically urge residents in low-lying and coastal neighbourhoods to remain vigilant when heavy rain coincides with high tides, as the combination can increase the risk of localised flooding and waterlogging.
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Agriculture and Disaster Management Department has issued an advisory to farmers across the state, cautioning them against commencing sowing operations based solely on isolated thunderstorms or short-term rainfall forecasts. Officials warned that premature sowing could lead to crop losses if regular monsoon rainfall fails to materialise in the following weeks.
Farmers have been encouraged to closely monitor official weather updates and wait for widespread and sustained rainfall before beginning agricultural activities.
Elsewhere in Maharashtra, regions such as Vidarbha, Marathwada, Khandesh and parts of Madhya Maharashtra are expected to experience cloudy skies and scattered afternoon thunderstorms until at least June 15. Temperatures are likely to remain above normal, with some parts of Vidarbha and Khandesh expected to cross the 40°C mark.
Weather authorities have also advised residents to avoid sheltering under trees and to stay away from power lines and metal structures during lightning activity. Looking ahead, meteorologists expect the south-west monsoon to advance into Delhi, Noida, Gurugram and other parts of the National Capital Region between June 25 and June 30.
