Early Monsoon Hits Mumbai, Triggers Weather Alert

The southwest monsoon arrived in Mumbai two days ahead of schedule, bringing the potential for heavy to very heavy rainfall. Thunderstorms are expected, and a red alert has been issued for Sindhudurg and Kolhapur. Other regions in Maharashtra, including Marathwada and Vidarbha, are also forecasted to receive significant rainfall.

The southwest monsoon arrived in Mumbai on Sunday, surpassing its usual onset date by two days, an official from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed.

Typically, the monsoon reaches Mumbai by June 11, but last year's delay until June 24 was due to the 'Biparjoy' cyclone over the Arabian Sea, the official added.

Mumbai can expect thunderstorms with heavy to very heavy rainfall, with a 51 to 75 percent chance of occurrence. Neighboring regions like Raigad and Ratnagiri have higher probabilities of experiencing intense rainfall. A red alert has been issued for Sindhudurg and Kolhapur, forecasting heavy to very heavy rain in most areas, according to the IMD.

Significant rainfall is also predicted for most districts in Maharashtra, focusing on the Marathwada and Vidarbha regions.