Heavy Rains In Mumbai; Waterlogging in Mahim, Thane, Sion As Traffic Slows, Minor Train Delays, High Tide Warning Issued

Mumbai woke up to waterlogged streets on Sunday, 17 August, after heavy overnight showers lashed the city and its suburbs. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall for Mumbai and adjoining areas, with occasional gusty winds reaching 40–50 kmph and gusting up to 60 kmph.

Several low-lying areas, including Mahim, Thane and parts of the western suburbs, reported waterlogging, causing inconvenience to morning commuters. Vehicular movement was sluggish as rainwater accumulated on stretches of the Eastern and Western Express Highways, leading to traffic snarls.

The water level of the Mithi River also rose following incessant rainfall, raising concerns of possible flooding if downpours continue through the day. Civic officials are monitoring the situation closely, particularly with high tide expected at 5.22 pm on Sunday, when sea levels are likely to reach 3.32 metres. Another high tide is forecast at 7.55 am on Monday, with water levels peaking at 3.54 metres.

Meanwhile, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has urged residents to avoid venturing out unnecessarily, especially in flood-prone zones. Disaster management teams have been placed on alert, while pumps have been deployed in chronically waterlogged areas to drain accumulated rainwater.

Local trains, considered Mumbai’s lifeline, were running with minor delays in certain sections, though suburban services remained operational. Officials have advised commuters to plan their journeys with caution due to the possibility of traffic disruptions and waterlogging.

With continuous downpours and strong winds predicted to persist, Mumbaikars are bracing themselves for a wet Sunday, as the city grapples with the dual challenge of rainfall and high tides.