After a brief respite, Mumbai is bracing for another spell of heavy rainfall, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy to very heavy showers accompanied by strong winds in the city and neighbouring districts on Wednesday.
According to the IMD, Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and Raigad are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall, while isolated areas in Palghar may experience extremely heavy rainfall. Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg are also expected to witness heavy showers at isolated locations.
The weather department said rainfall activity is likely to gradually ease from July 9, with light to moderate showers expected across most districts from July 12 after the intense spell.
The IMD has warned that heavy rainfall could trigger localised flooding in low-lying areas, flash floods, and disruptions to road, rail, air and ferry services. It has also cautioned about rough sea conditions along the Konkan coast, possible landslides in vulnerable areas, and damage to crops and weak structures.
Meanwhile, the Western Railway cancelled several train services after heavy rain-induced waterlogging disrupted rail operations. The cancelled services included the Dadar-Bhuj Sayajinagari Express, Ahmedabad-Bandra Terminus Karnavati Express and its return journey, Ahmedabad-Mumbai Central AC Double Decker Express and its return service, Ahmedabad-Mumbai Central Tejas Express and its return service, and the Ahmedabad-Mumbai Central Vande Bharat Express and its return service.
Mumbai witnessed a temporary break from intense rainfall on Tuesday, even as flash floods and landslides affected several other parts of Maharashtra. The death toll from flood-related incidents in Palghar district over the past week has risen to 10.
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Agriculture Department has advised farmers in areas that have received inadequate rainfall not to begin sowing until sufficient moisture levels are established in the soil.
