Mumbai Hit by Early Monsoon Rains, IMD Issues Red Alert for “Extremely Heavy Rainfall

Hadisur Rahman, JadeTimes Staff

H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia

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Image Source: Punit Paranjpe/AFP

Mumbai was lashed by intense rainfall on Monday as the annual southwest monsoon arrived in India’s financial capital nearly two weeks ahead of schedule, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). The early onset has prompted city authorities to issue a red alert, warning residents of “extremely heavy rainfall” through Tuesday.

“This marks the earliest monsoon advancement over Mumbai during the period 2001–2025,” the IMD said, noting that the rains typically reach the city around June 11. This year, the monsoon arrived on May 27-16 days earlier than usual making it the earliest onset in nearly a quarter of a century.

The monsoon’s arrival brought welcome relief from scorching temperatures and is a positive sign for the agricultural sector, which relies heavily on this seasonal rainfall. However, in urban centers like Mumbai, it also signals the beginning of a season often marked by waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and infrastructure strain.

“All citizens are advised to stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary,” said Mumbai’s municipal authorities in a public advisory. Emergency teams have been placed on high alert across the city.

Regional IMD chief Shubhangi Bhute confirmed that across Maharashtra, this was the earliest onset of the monsoon in 14 years. The IMD expects widespread rainfall to continue over the next several days, urging residents to monitor weather updates closely.

The southwest monsoon is a powerful ocean-driven wind system that delivers 70–80% of South Asia’s annual rainfall between June and September. It plays a vital role in replenishing water resources, supporting agriculture, and ensuring food security for millions of people.

But the monsoon also brings significant challenges. Each year, the rains lead to flooding, landslides, and other forms of environmental and infrastructural damage, particularly in densely populated urban areas.

Climate experts have noted that monsoons are becoming increasingly erratic, with earlier arrivals, shifting patterns, and heavier rainfall events becoming more frequent. While the direct link between climate change and specific monsoon behaviors remains under study, scientists agree that warming temperatures are likely influencing the region’s complex weather systems.

As Mumbai braces for more rain, the city is reminded once again of the fragile balance between the life-giving and destructive powers of the monsoon.