IMD Issues Red Alert for Heavy Rain in Maharashtra and Kerala

IMD predicts heavy rain across Maharashtra including Mumbai, issuing red alerts in Raigad and several Kerala districts. Monsoon shifts downward expect over 20 cm of rain. Heavy rainfall causes flooding and displacements in various regions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted intense rainfall across Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai on Tuesday, July 16. A red alert has been issued for Raigad, while an orange alert is in place for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Pune, Satara, and Kolhapur.

The state has been experiencing heavy rain over the past few days, leading to floods and traffic disruptions in various cities. On Sunday, the IMD indicated that the monsoon is shifting downward, with regions like coastal Karnataka, Kerala, and Konkan Goa expected to receive over 20 cm of rainfall in the coming days.

Dr. Naresh Kumar, an IMD scientist, confirmed this development to ANI, stating, 'The monsoon is shifting downward from today. We are issuing a red alert for coastal Karnataka, Kerala, and Konkan Goa for the coming days. There may be more than 20 cm of rain there. Delhi-NCR will receive light rain in the coming days. There is no alert for Delhi.' Several states in India have been grappling with severe rain, resulting in flooding and significant loss of life and property.

In Maharashtra, the Kamwari River in the Bhiwandi area of Thane overflowed on Sunday, flooding homes near its banks. Sultania Gali slum residents were displaced due to rising water levels. Similarly, many districts in Kerala are on high alert. The IMD has issued a red alert for Malappuram, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts, along with an orange alert for Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode, and Wayanad districts for Monday.

(With inputs from agencies.)