Red Alert Issued Amid Monsoon Surge; Authorities Urge Caution.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Gujarat and Maharashtra, warning of extremely heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours due to a strong monsoonal system brewing over the Arabian Sea.
🔶 Key Highlights:
- Red alert issued for parts of Gujarat and Maharashtra
- Extremely heavy rainfall (204.5 mm or more) expected till July 24
- Flood-like conditions likely in low-lying areas
- NDRF teams deployed; schools closed in multiple districts
- Advisory issued to avoid unnecessary travel
🌧️ IMD Forecast & Affected Areas
The IMD has warned of widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds in districts such as Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Pune, Nashik (Maharashtra) and Ahmedabad, Surat, Valsad, Navsari (Gujarat).
“Under the influence of an active offshore trough and cyclonic circulation, very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is expected in Konkan, Madhya Maharashtra, and South Gujarat regions,” said an IMD official.
🛑 Precautionary Measures in Place
Authorities in both states have swung into action. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been stationed in vulnerable districts.
District collectors have ordered closure of schools and colleges in Mumbai, Palghar, and Navsari on July 22 and 23.
Traffic advisories have been issued in Mumbai due to waterlogging on key roads.
⚠️ Advisory for Citizens
- Avoid unnecessary travel
- Stay away from coastal areas and overflowing rivers
- Follow updates from IMD, local authorities, and disaster helplines
- Stock essentials in case of power or water disruptions
🗣️ Government’s Statement
Union Minister for Earth Sciences, Kirti Vardhan Singh, assured that the central government is in constant touch with state disaster management authorities.
“We are monitoring the situation round the clock. Rescue forces are on standby for any emergency,” he said.
