India: Pre-monsoon rain disrupts daily life in Mumbai June 4-5

Event

Heavy pre-monsoon rains heavily impacted Mumbai (Maharashtra state) on Monday, June 4. Severe flooding, power outages, and travel disruptions were reported in Mumbai and its suburbs as well as several nearby districts including Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Thane. Some flights were diverted or delayed at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM).

Heavy rain and thunderstorms continued into Tuesday, June 5, and, according to the India Meteorological Department, similar weather conditions are expected to last through the week in Maharashtra, as well as in Goa and Karnataka states.

Context

India's Monsoon season generally runs from June through September. The current season is expected to bring normal levels of rainfall, with a 20 percent chance of above-average or below-average precipitation.

Advice

Individuals in India, particularly in the abovementioned areas, are advised to monitor developments to weather forecasts as monsoon season approaches. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.