Mumbai Weather Alert: IMD Issues Yellow Warning Amid Rising Cyclonic Activity in Arabian Sea

Mumbai Weather Alert: IMD Issues Yellow Warning Amid Rising Cyclonic Activity in Arabian Sea
Mumbai : – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Yellow Alert for Mumbai and nearby regions as cyclonic activity intensifies over the east-central Arabian Sea. Citizens of the city are being urged to remain cautious as heavy rains, strong winds, and potential flooding loom over the horizon.
This alert follows the detection of a low-pressure system forming over the Arabian Sea, which may intensify in the coming days. Although the exact path and intensity of the potential cyclone are still being monitored, weather officials have not ruled out the possibility of further escalation.
⚠️ What the Yellow Alert Means
A Yellow Alert indicates the likelihood of moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds. It serves as a warning for citizens to be prepared but not alarmed. According to the IMD, rainfall in Mumbai may reach up to 70–110 mm in 24 hours in certain areas, with wind speeds touching 30–40 km/h.
In addition, the IMD has warned of rough sea conditions, making it dangerous for fishermen and coastal travelers. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued guidelines to residents living in low-lying areas, urging them to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel.
🏙️ Mumbai’s Urban Risks
Mumbai, a city prone to monsoon flooding, is particularly vulnerable during such weather events. The city’s ageing drainage systems, combined with congested urban planning, often result in waterlogging, power outages, and transport disruption even during normal monsoon rains.
Authorities have already begun clearing stormwater drains and inspecting vulnerable areas to prevent emergencies.
Key areas on high alert include:
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Dadar
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Kurla
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Sion
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Malad
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Andheri
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CST (rail network)
🛑 Transport and Daily Life Impact
The Mumbai Local Train system — often called the city’s lifeline — is expected to experience delays and possible route changes depending on the severity of rainfall. The BEST bus service has also been advised to monitor waterlogged areas and divert buses when necessary.
Citizens are advised to:
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Avoid travelling during peak rainfall hours
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Charge mobile phones and power backups
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Stay indoors unless absolutely necessary
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Secure loose objects on balconies and rooftops
🌊 Marine Warning and Fisherfolk Advisory
The IMD has strictly advised fishermen not to venture into the sea from May 20 onwards, as the sea conditions are expected to be rough to very rough. The Maharashtra Fisheries Department has halted boat operations from Mumbai, Alibaug, and Ratnagiri ports as a precautionary measure.
Fisherfolk communities, especially those near Versova, Sassoon Dock, and Colaba, have begun bringing their boats ashore and securing them with additional moorings.
🌿 Link to Cyclonic Activity in Arabian Sea
This weather alert is not an isolated event. It is directly linked to a larger cyclonic circulation developing over the east-central Arabian Sea, which the IMD has been monitoring closely. If the system continues to gain strength, it could evolve into a depression or cyclone, affecting not only Maharashtra but also parts of Gujarat, Goa, and Karnataka.
Experts believe the rising frequency of such events is a result of climate change, higher sea surface temperatures, and disrupted wind patterns.
🛡️ Government & Emergency Response
The BMC Disaster Management Cell, along with the NDRF (National Disaster Response Force), has been placed on standby. All pump stations, relief shelters, and control rooms are active, with coordination happening between civic bodies and weather agencies.
A 24×7 helpline (1916) has been activated for public assistance.
Additionally, residents can stay updated through:
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IMD website and mobile app
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BMC’s official Twitter/X handle
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Local news channels and FM radio
Citizen Voices
“I’ve stocked food, water, and candles for the next two days,” says Priya Deshmukh, a schoolteacher in Ghatkopar. “We’ve experienced sudden floods in the past, and I don’t want to take any chances.”
Meanwhile, Rafiq Sheikh, a boatman in Colaba, says, “We’ve been told to tie up our boats. The sea looks calm now, but we know it can change fast. We’ve seen this before.”
Final Advice
While this is currently a yellow-level alert, Mumbai’s citizens are no strangers to how quickly such situations can escalate. Staying informed and prepared is the best way to stay safe during these uncertain weather conditions.
Keep your emergency kits ready, follow official instructions, and avoid spreading unverified information on social media.
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