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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, and other parts of Maharashtra, signaling the likelihood of thunderstorms, lightning, moderate rainfall, and gusty winds from May 17 to May 21, 2025. This warning indicates a period of unsettled weather conditions across the region, prompting authorities and residents to prepare for potential disruptions and take necessary precautions. The yellow alert, while not the most severe level of warning, serves as an advisory to remain vigilant and stay informed about weather updates. For Mumbai, the alert is in effect for Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, while neighboring districts like Thane and Raigad are under warning from Sunday through Wednesday. This suggests a concentrated period of heightened weather activity in the region. The IMD's forecast also extends beyond the Konkan region, placing the rest of Maharashtra under a yellow warning for the next four days, indicating a widespread likelihood of unsettled weather throughout the state. The alert’s geographical reach highlights the importance of understanding the weather patterns and the potential impact of the pre-monsoon showers. It also underscores the need for coordinated efforts across different districts to ensure public safety and minimize disruptions to daily life.
The IMD scientist, Akhil Srivastava, also pointed out that southern India, particularly Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, will experience persistent rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds for the next five days. Similar weather conditions are expected to prevail over Central India. This suggests a broader pattern of unsettled weather conditions affecting multiple regions of the country. The prevalence of pre-monsoon showers in Mumbai over the past few days further emphasizes the changing weather patterns and the impending arrival of the monsoon season. The IMD has also announced that the southwest monsoon is expected to arrive in Kerala in the next four to five days, which is earlier than the usual date of June 1. This is a significant development, as the monsoon's arrival over Kerala marks the onset of the rainy season across the Indian mainland. The monsoon is a crucial weather phenomenon for India, as it provides essential rainfall for agriculture and replenishes water resources. An early arrival of the monsoon can have significant implications for the country's economy and environment. The IMD had earlier forecasted that the monsoon would onset over Kerala by May 27, which will be the earliest arrival on the Indian mainland since 2009, when it began on May 23, as per IMD data. These early arrivals signal important shifts in broader climate patterns.
In 2025, the IMD anticipates above-normal rainfall (greater than 104 percent of the Long Period Average) during the southwest monsoon season (June to September) for the country as a whole. This forecast is significant as it suggests the potential for ample rainfall during the monsoon season, which is vital for agriculture, water resources, and overall economic stability. The advance of the southwest monsoon over the Indian mainland is marked by monsoon onset over Kerala. It is an important indicator characterizing the transition from the hot and dry to the rainy season. The yellow alert indicates the likelihood of unsettled weather across the state, urging residents to be prepared for potential disruptions and take necessary precautions. The persistent rainfall and thunderstorms expected over the next five days further emphasize the need for vigilance and preparedness. The southwest monsoon typically sets in over Kerala on June 1, with a standard deviation of about 7 days. This information provides a historical context for understanding the typical timing of the monsoon's arrival and the variations that can occur from year to year. The current forecast suggests an earlier-than-usual arrival, which could have both positive and negative consequences. On one hand, it could provide much-needed relief from the summer heat and replenish water resources earlier in the season. On the other hand, it could also lead to increased risks of flooding and other weather-related disasters. The IMD's ongoing monitoring and forecasting efforts are crucial for providing timely information and enabling effective disaster preparedness. The agency's expertise and resources play a vital role in protecting lives and livelihoods during the monsoon season.
Source: Mumbai rains: Yellow Alert! IMD issues thunderstorm, rainfall warnings till May 21; key details here