The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall across Maharashtra starting from Saturday, September 27, continuing through to September 30, 2025. Mumbai, along with Palghar, Thane, Raigad, and parts of Konkan and Madhya Maharashtra, is under an orange alert indicating significant rainfall activity. Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30–40 km/hour are expected at isolated locations.
A well-marked low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal is predicted to intensify into a depression, causing widespread showers and localized extremely heavy rainfall. Authorities have issued warnings urging residents to stay indoors when possible, avoid waterlogged stretches and low-lying areas, and refrain from travelling unless essential.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has activated emergency response teams and control rooms to manage waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and any other emergent issues. Fishermen along the North Maharashtra coast have been strictly advised not to venture into rough seas, with wind speeds expected to gust up to 65 km/h over the coming days.
Impact and Precautionary Measures
The heavy rainfall is anticipated to impact daily life significantly. Mumbai is expected to experience cooler temperatures, with highs around 29°C and lows near 24°C during this period.
Several districts have issued local school closures as a precaution, Nanded and Latur among them, while the Maharashtra State Civil Services examination scheduled in some areas has been postponed. The emergency management teams are on high alert to handle flooding and infrastructural challenges, including potential disruptions in suburban train services and road traffic.
The IMD has also warned against taking shelter under trees during thunderstorms, crossing waterlogged roads or bridges, and cautioned the public against spreading rumours that could incite panic. Residents have been encouraged to use local relief shelters if needed and closely follow official advisories.
Current Monsoon Context and Environmental Concerns
This spell of rainfall comes in a monsoon season marked by unusual intensity and erratic patterns in Maharashtra. Several districts, like Ratnagiri and Raigad, have previously experienced heavy rain-induced flooding and road closures this month.
Meteorologists link the current rain conditions to an active weather system moving westward across the Bay of Bengal and influenced by a trough extending into Maharashtra. Experts emphasize that climate change may be exacerbating these extreme weather events, causing challenges for urban infrastructure and agricultural zones which are still recovering from earlier floods.
High rainfall in the Sahyadri Ghats region could particularly affect ongoing Navratri and cultural festivities, necessitating heightened public safety awareness.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This weather alert underscores how critical it is to strengthen disaster preparedness and urban resilience in the face of climate variability. While timely alerts and emergency responses save lives, they must be part of a broader strategy that includes sustainable infrastructure development, community education, and environmental stewardship.
The Logical Indian advocates for a culture of empathy and cooperation, especially during natural calamities, encouraging individuals and authorities to work together proactively to reduce risks and protect vulnerable communities.
Just in : IMD has issued Orange Alert 🟠 for Mumbai, Thane & Palghar for 27-29 September amid very heavy rains. #MumbaiRains pic.twitter.com/rib7rSyYGv
— Mumbai Rains (@rushikesh_agre_) September 26, 2025