Mumbai: An Orange Alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall has been sounded for Mumbai and it's neighbouring districts of Thane, Palghar and Raigad for the next four days. While for Saturday, August 16 Red Alert has been issued for Raigad forecasting extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places.
Widespread rain expected till August 20
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday, issued an warning for widespread increase in rainfall activity over Maharashtra from August 15 to 20.
As per the warning, "Widespread rainfall activity with Heavy to Very Heavy rainfall at a few places and Isolated Extremely Heavy Rainfall is very likely over Konkan and adjoining ghat areas of Madhya Maharashtra during the above period". There is also a possibility of lightning and thunder accompanied by occasional gusty winds reaching 30-40 kmph.
Mumbai forecast: cloudy skies, heavy spells
As per the local weather forecast for the next 48 hours for Mumbai city and suburbs, the skies will be generally cloudy with heavy rain at isolated places. There is possibility of very heavy rain at isolated places towards late night/early morning in city & suburbs. The maximum and minimum temperatures will be around 28°C and 23°C, respectively.
Cyclonic circulation driving weather change
The weather change is attributed to upper cyclonic air circulation over Northeastern Arabian sea, south Gujarat and Konkan. The IMD has advised the fishermen are to not venture into the sea until August 19. The citizens are also advised to take precautions while moving out and avoid visit seashores due to squally weather.
Relief from heat, possible lake level boost
The city was facing a lull in the rainfall activity from last two weeks. With the change in the weather system, Mumbai and MMR is witnessing continuous moderate rains from two days. The rains have also brought down the temperatures, giving relief from heat and humidity.
Also Watch:
Meanwhile, the widespread rainfall is also expected to increase the stock in the seven lakes supplying water to Mumbai. The seven reservoirs are located in Thane and Nashik districts. Due to lack of rainfall activity, the water levels at the seven lakes is stagnant at 89% from last three weeks. It is necessary for the water levels to increase, to avoid water cuts in the summer.
