Maharashtra Braces for Torrential Downpour: Red and Orange Alerts Issued

The Weather Department has sounded alarm bells in Maharashtra, issuing Red and Orange alerts for a 24-hour period across multiple districts. Heavy rainfall, drenching the state since early Monday, has prompted this warning. Specifically, a Red alert affects regions such as Mumbai, Raigad, and Pune Ghat, while an Orange alert is in place for districts including Palghar, Thane, and Jalgaon.

Amidst the severe weather, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a shutdown of afternoon school shifts, advising residents to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary. Emergency helplines have been activated for urgent assistance and updates. The BMC stresses vigilance by citizens as the rainstorm lashes the area.

According to the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services, high tides ranging from 3.5 to 4.3 meters are expected, particularly impacting coastal regions such as Mumbai and Thane. Concurrently, authorities have urged fishermen to avoid venturing into turbulent seas. Precautionary measures are in place, with swift coordination among agencies to ensure public safety during this weather event.

(With inputs from agencies.)