IMD Sounds Red Alert in Maharashtra: Heavy Rain, UP-Haryana to See Storms

National News: The India Meteorological Department eissued a red alert for Maharashtra’s Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Kolhapur, and Satara districts, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 204 mm in 24 hours. This marks the southwest monsoon’s earliest onset in the state since 2009, triggered by a cyclonic circulation over the Arabian Sea. Mumbai, under a yellow alert, recorded 93.4 mm of rain, causing severe waterlogging in Andheri and Kurla. An orange alert covers Pune and Raigad, warning of potential landslides. The IMD’s bulletin urges residents to stay indoors and avoid travel, with emergency helplines activated statewide.

Thunderstorms Sweep UP and Haryana

The IMD also predicts thunderstorms and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) across Uttar Pradesh and Haryana until May 29, with isolated hailstorms possible in Lucknow, Agra, and Gurugram. A western disturbance interacting with moist monsoon currents is driving the turbulent weather, with Haryana’s Ambala recording 45 mm of rain overnight. UP’s Kanpur and Meerut face similar risks, with lightning alerts issued. The IMD advises farmers to secure crops, particularly in Haryana’s wheat belt, and warns of minor structural damage due to strong winds. Schools in affected areas are shifting to online modes, while local administrations are on high alert.

Government Response and Public Impact

Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has deployed disaster response teams, with 24/7 control rooms in Mumbai and coastal districts. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation is using high-capacity pumps to clear flooded roads, but train delays persist on Central and Western Railways. In UP and Haryana, power outages and traffic disruptions are reported, with X posts reflecting public frustration over unprepared infrastructure. The IMD’s early warning systems, praised during recent weather events, are guiding relief efforts. As farmers face crop losses and urban areas battle flooding, the alerts underscore the need for robust preparedness to mitigate the monsoon’s escalating challenges.