Mumbai Shatters 107-Year Rainfall Record as Monsoon Arrives Early
Mumbai experienced an unprecedented deluge, recording its highest May rainfall in over a century. The Colaba observatory recorded 295 mm of rainfall, surpassing the previous record of 279.4 mm set in May 1918 . This intense downpour coincided with the earliest monsoon onset in 75 years, arriving 16 days ahead of schedule .
The torrential rains led to severe waterlogging across Mumbai, particularly in South Mumbai areas like Nariman Point, Byculla, and Dadar, where rainfall exceeded 200 mm . The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Mumbai and neighboring districts, cautioning residents against non-essential travel . Public transportation faced significant disruptions, with local train services halted and numerous flights delayed or canceled due to reduced visibility and flooded runways .
Meteorologists attribute this extreme weather event to the remnants of a depression over Pune, leading to strong atmospheric convergence and the formation of tall cumulonimbus clouds . Experts warn that such anomalies may become more frequent due to climate change, emphasizing the need for enhanced urban planning and infrastructure resilience .
As Mumbai grapples with the aftermath, authorities urge citizens to stay indoors and remain vigilant. The IMD forecasts continued rainfall in the coming days, with a yellow alert issued for Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar districts until Thursday morning . This event underscores the pressing need for sustainable urban development and proactive measures to combat the challenges posed by changing climate patterns.
The torrential rains led to severe waterlogging across Mumbai, particularly in South Mumbai areas like Nariman Point, Byculla, and Dadar, where rainfall exceeded 200 mm . The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Mumbai and neighboring districts, cautioning residents against non-essential travel . Public transportation faced significant disruptions, with local train services halted and numerous flights delayed or canceled due to reduced visibility and flooded runways .
Meteorologists attribute this extreme weather event to the remnants of a depression over Pune, leading to strong atmospheric convergence and the formation of tall cumulonimbus clouds . Experts warn that such anomalies may become more frequent due to climate change, emphasizing the need for enhanced urban planning and infrastructure resilience .
As Mumbai grapples with the aftermath, authorities urge citizens to stay indoors and remain vigilant. The IMD forecasts continued rainfall in the coming days, with a yellow alert issued for Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar districts until Thursday morning . This event underscores the pressing need for sustainable urban development and proactive measures to combat the challenges posed by changing climate patterns.
