Mumbai and its neighbouring regions are set to experience significant pre-monsoon rainfall this week, as forecasted by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The city has already witnessed light showers since Sunday night, with overcast skies prevailing into Monday morning. The IMD predicts that these conditions will persist, bringing much-needed respite from the recent heatwave. According to the IMD’s latest bulletin, a low-pressure area is expected to form over the east-central Arabian Sea off the Karnataka coast around May 22. This system is likely to intensify and move northwards, leading to increased rainfall activity over Maharashtra, particularly in the Konkan region, including Mumbai, from May 19 to May 25. The forecast includes fairly widespread to widespread rainfall with heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Mumbai and surrounding districts such as Palghar, Thane, and Raigad, indicating the likelihood of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, light to moderate rainfall, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 km/h. Residents are advised to stay alert and take necessary precautions during this period. The pre-monsoon showers, often referred to as “mango showers,” are typical during this time of the year and play a crucial role in alleviating the intense summer heat. These rains are also beneficial for agriculture, aiding in the early ripening of mangoes and preparing the soil for the upcoming sowing season.
The IMD’s extended forecast suggests that the southwest monsoon is advancing rapidly and is expected to reach the Kerala coast by May 27, ahead of its usual onset. This early arrival is likely to influence the monsoon’s progression over Maharashtra, potentially bringing an early start to the monsoon season in the state. In the meantime, the IMD advises residents to remain vigilant and stay updated with the latest weather forecasts. Precautionary measures, such as securing loose objects, avoiding waterlogged areas, and planning travel accordingly, are recommended to ensure safety during this period of increased rainfall activity.
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