India: Heavy rains, significant travel disruptions in Mumbai Sep. 20 /update 1

Event

Mumbai (Maharashtra state) continues to be subjected to heavy monsoon rains, resulting in significant flooding and transportation disruptions as of Wednesday, September 20. The areas most affected by the rains include south Mumbai, Kandivili, Borivali, Andheri, and Bandhup.​

On September 19, strong rainfall forced the temporary suspension of flight operations at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM). A plane overshot the runway on Tuesday while landing in heavy rain and the incident has caused the main runway to be closed until at least 14:00 on Wednesday (local time). The second runway remains operational. 

The heavy rains have also caused disruptions to rail and road travel, though both were expected to normalize on September 20. Mumbai-area schools are were closed on September 20 as a precautionary measure in anticipation of further flooding and consequent transportation disruptions.

Local disaster management officials have warned Mumbai citizens to take appropriate flood precautions as more rain is expected through the week in the north Konkan region of Maharashtra state, including Mumbai.

Context

Torrential rain is common in India during the monsoon season, which runs between June and September. Mumbai has seen particularly heavy rainfall this year, with a reported increase in water-borne diseases in the city since the end of August.

Advice

Individuals present in India are advised to follow all instructions as issued by local authorities, monitor the situation and weather forecasts, and anticipate transportation disruptions and potentially hazardous conditions. Those travelling via Chhatrapati Shivaji (BOM) International Airport should check for any disruptions to planned travel.

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock you over. Finally, because floodwater may also contain wastewater or chemical products, wear boots and try to avoid any contact with the water. All items having come into contact with the water should be washed and disinfected and any foodstuffs discarded.