Mumbai witnessed one of its heaviest spells of rainfall this monsoon over the past 24 hours, with several parts of the city receiving more than 250 mm of rain, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert for Sunday. The weather office warned of continued heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, accompanied by strong winds, raising concerns over waterlogging, traffic disruptions and flooding in low-lying areas.

According to the IMD, the city recorded an average rainfall of more than 190 mm across its three meteorological regions between 8 am on Saturday and 8 am on Sunday. The island city received an average of 194 mm of rain, while the eastern suburbs recorded 217 mm and the western suburbs 186 mm. Several localities reported rainfall exceeding 250 mm during the same period, making it one of the most intense rain events of the current monsoon season.

In its 8 am forecast, the IMD predicted moderate to intense spells of rainfall at isolated locations in Mumbai and neighbouring Raigad district over the next few hours. The weather department said persistent rainfall is expected to continue across Mumbai and its suburbs throughout the day, with very heavy rain likely at several places and extremely heavy rain possible at isolated locations. It also forecast gusty winds with speeds ranging between 55 kmph and 65 kmph, urging residents to exercise caution while venturing outdoors.

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The heavy rainfall has heightened concerns over flooding in vulnerable areas, particularly as a high tide is expected later in the day. Civic authorities are closely monitoring the situation, as the combination of intense rainfall and high tide could slow the drainage of rainwater and increase the risk of waterlogging in several parts of the city. Commuters have also been advised to expect delays on roads and public transport services if rainfall continues at the predicted intensity.

The IMD classifies a red alert as a warning for extremely heavy rainfall with the potential to cause significant disruption to normal life. Such alerts are issued when weather conditions may pose a serious threat to public safety, infrastructure and transportation. Authorities typically advise residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from flooded areas and follow official advisories during periods of severe weather.

Mumbai experiences heavy rainfall every year during the southwest monsoon, but intense cloudbursts over short durations often overwhelm the city's drainage network, resulting in widespread waterlogging and traffic congestion. Civic agencies remain on alert as rainfall is expected to persist through the day, with emergency teams deployed to respond to flooding, fallen trees and other rain-related incidents. Officials have urged citizens to remain vigilant, monitor weather updates and cooperate with emergency services as the city continues to grapple with the ongoing spell of severe monsoon weather.

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