Maharashtra rains: Next 24 hours crucial for state, says IMD; here is why

As rainfall intensified in Maharashtra over the past few days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the next 24 hours will be very crucial for the state.

Mumbai and its suburbs receive light rainfall, while heavy rain continues to lash out at Navi Mumbai, Panvel, and Raigad.

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As many as eight people had died by Friday—in addition to one missing and thousands evacuated—following incessant rains across various parts of Maharashtra, which brought on floods, crop losses, lightning strikes, and widespread damage to property. 

Waterlogging in Mumbai and Pune has also caused problems for commuters.

The IMD has attributed this to a low-pressure belt that has formed in Vidarbha (east) and Marathwada (centre-west), as well as moisture-laden winds coming from the Arabian Sea.

This has led to light to moderate rainfall predicted for northern and central Maharashtra, in addition to heavy rainfall predicted to continue on the Konkan coast over the next 4 days.

Gusty surface winds of 45-55km/h are also expected, which may even go up to 65km/h.

Mumbai received an orange alert for Saturday. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has also advised commuters to limit unnecessary outings, and plan ahead to avoid any inconveniences. The IMD and local weather advisories have also advised fishermen not to go out into the sea due to the rough tide.

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Heavy rain on Saturday has been predicted for Pune, Thane, Raigad, Satara, Jalna, and Aurangabad.

Nashik, Latur, Palghar, Nagpur, and Charapur received a yellow alert, with light to moderate rainfall predicted for these regions.