Mumbai: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a 'yellow' alert for several districts across Maharashtra, including Mumbai, for the period from May 19 to 23. This advisory signals residents and authorities to remain watchful and prepared for potential weather disturbances.

The 'yellow' alert covers Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and Dhule districts continuously for five days, with other districts under similar alerts ranging from one to four days. The IMD forecasts thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, light to moderate rainfall, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kmph in isolated areas within these districts. The likelihood of these weather events occurring is described as “very likely.”

In addition to the 'yellow' alert, the IMD has issued an 'orange' alert—which indicates a higher level of caution—for select districts in the Konkan, Marathwada, North Maharashtra, and Western Maharashtra regions, including their ghat sections. The orange alert requires heightened vigilance and preparedness to take prompt action if necessary.

Specifically, the ghat sections of Pune district will remain under the orange alert for the entire five-day period. Other areas in Western Maharashtra, Konkan, Marathwada, and North Maharashtra will experience this alert for durations ranging from one to four days. The weather conditions forecast under this alert include heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms with lightning, and gusty winds with speeds of 50 to 60 kmph in isolated places.

The IMD noted that several parts of Maharashtra have already been experiencing pre-monsoon rains accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning since the previous week. These conditions have contributed to localized waterlogging and disruptions in affected areas.

The department also emphasised that while the current forecasts cover a five-day span, weather alerts and warnings will be updated daily in the afternoon to reflect evolving weather conditions. Authorities and residents are urged to monitor updates closely and take necessary precautions during this period to mitigate the impact of severe weather.
(With PTI inputs)