Heavy Rainfall Predicted Across Western India: IMD Issues Alerts for Maharashtra and Gujarat
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted a fresh spell of heavy to very heavy rainfall across western India, particularly in Maharashtra and Gujarat, raising concerns about flooding, traffic chaos, and agricultural damage in several districts.
Maharashtra on High Alert
The IMD has issued yellow alerts for many districts in the Konkan region and Madhya Maharashtra, where heavy rainfall is expected between August 25 and 28. Coastal belts such as Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg, along with the Sahyadri Ghat areas, are expected to witness intense downpours.
Mumbai is also bracing for over 100 millimeters of rainfall within 24 hours, especially between August 26 and 27. Authorities have warned residents of potential waterlogging, road blockages, and disruption to local train services.
In Pune, moderate showers are likely within the city limits, while the surrounding hilly districts including Satara, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Kolhapur may see heavier rainfall due to the influence of a low-pressure area over northeast Madhya Pradesh and a cyclonic circulation over Punjab and northwest Madhya Pradesh.
Dams Begin Controlled Water Release
In anticipation of the heavy inflow, the Koyna and Warna dams in Maharashtra have started releasing water. The Koyna dam, operating at 95% of its storage capacity, has released around 10,300 cusecs, while the Warna dam has discharged approximately 4,700 cusecs. Officials said these measures were taken to prevent sudden overflow and minimize flood risks in downstream areas.
Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about water management in neighboring regions. Activists have urged the Karnataka government to initiate timely discharges from the Almatti dam to reduce the threat of flooding further downstream.
Gujarat Faces Week-Long Monsoon Fury
In Gujarat, a prolonged and intense monsoon spell has already caused widespread disruption from August 19 to 25. The IMD has placed several districts under red and orange alerts, including Navsari, Valsad, Junagadh, Amreli, and Gir Somnath. Other districts such as Surat, Rajkot, and Porbandar are also on high alert.
With reservoirs nearing full capacity, officials fear flash floods, waterlogging, power outages, and crop destruction. Farmers in low-lying agricultural zones are especially vulnerable, with concerns about soil erosion and standing crop damage.
Ganeshotsav Amid Heavy Showers
The forecasts coincide with preparations for Ganeshotsav, Maharashtra’s biggest cultural festival, which begins later this month. While the celebrations are expected to go ahead, authorities have urged devotees to remain cautious, avoid flood-prone areas, and follow safety advisories.
Wider Impact
The ongoing weather patterns underscore the challenges India faces from increasingly erratic monsoon cycles. Meteorologists attribute the current spell to a combination of low-pressure systems over central India and cyclonic circulations that are channeling moisture-laden winds toward the western coast.
Authorities across both states have mobilized disaster response teams, municipal staff, and irrigation departments to manage the situation. Citizens have been advised to stay indoors during peak rainfall hours, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow official updates closely.
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