Mumbai heavy rain returned just hours before Ganeshotsav, affecting parts of the city, Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli and the Vasai-Virar region, while the India Meteorological Department has issued orange and yellow alerts across 20 districts of Maharashtra. The downpour has already caused water accumulation in low-lying areas and disrupted last-minute festival preparations.
Rain intensified from around midnight in several parts of Mumbai and continued through the morning, according to a report by Navbharat Times – Mumbai. The spell followed an extended period of relatively dry weather in the Mumbai region. In Kalyan-Dombivli, residents had reportedly faced around one and a half months without substantial rainfall before the showers returned.
The immediate impact has been visible in low-lying neighbourhoods and on roads. Water accumulation was reported in parts of Vasai, Nalasopara and Virar after heavy rain from Sunday morning. The weather has created difficulties for residents travelling to markets for final purchases, as well as for families and public Ganeshotsav organisers moving idols and completing decorations before the festival begins.
The rain is also affecting temporary festival infrastructure. Ganesh pandals, roadside decorations and other installations are vulnerable to waterlogging and strong winds, particularly in areas where drainage is already under pressure. Residents have reportedly arranged plastic covers to protect idols and decorative materials while transporting them or completing preparations.
The IMD forecast cited in the report indicates a possibility of rain across most parts of Maharashtra between September 13 and 14. Orange and yellow alerts have been issued for 20 districts. Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Pune, Nashik and parts of Marathwada and Vidarbha are expected to experience thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds, along with heavy rain in several locations.
The forecast also indicates that rainfall could intensify from September 15. In Vasai-Virar, a yellow alert has been issued for the current day and the following day, with heavy rain expected over the next two days. The report does not provide details of specific municipal closures, transport cancellations or evacuation measures.
The timing of the weather system places additional pressure on local authorities and festival organisers, as Ganeshotsav preparations involve temporary structures, crowded markets, idol transport and large public gatherings. The next operational developments will depend on rainfall intensity, waterlogging conditions and further weather updates issued for Mumbai and surrounding districts.
