Red Alert Issued for Multiple Districts
The IMD has issued red alerts for Mumbai city, Mumbai Suburban, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, and Pune. Districts in Madhya Pradesh including Sagar and Balaghat have also been placed under high-risk warnings. According to the IMD advisory, residents should stay indoors, avoid low-lying areas, and remain alert to the risk of flooding and waterlogging.
Forecasts indicate intense rainfall with wind speeds of 40–60 kmph, increasing the threat of tree falls and property damage. Maharashtra Disaster Management Department has confirmed six rain-related deaths in the past 24 hours, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
Government Response and Relief Measures
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed all district agencies to remain on high alert. Collectors have been instructed to provide immediate relief in case of casualties, livestock loss, or crop damage. The state government has also asked officials to complete NDRF-mandated compensation procedures promptly for affected farmers.
Rescue teams are stationed in vulnerable regions, and local administrations are monitoring river levels. Citizens have been urged to call helpline numbers in case of emergencies.
Are Schools Closed in Mumbai Today?
Despite widespread speculation, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has not announced a blanket holiday for schools in Mumbai on August 20. A fake circular claiming city-wide school closures was debunked by the civic body on social media. However, Mumbai University has postponed all exams scheduled for today to August 23.
Meanwhile, the Lonavla Municipal Council has declared a two-day closure of all schools, both government and private, on August 20 and 21 due to safety concerns.
Are Offices Open in Mumbai?
The BMC has declared a holiday for all government and semi-government offices, while advising private companies to permit work from home. Essential services, including hospitals, police, and utilities, remain fully operational.
Many employees in the IT and service sectors have shifted to remote work arrangements. However, banks and public sector units are functioning with limited staff strength.
Transport Update: Trains and Flights
While Central Railway, Western Railway, and Harbour Line services were running on Wednesday morning, intermittent delays and cancellations were reported due to waterlogging on tracks. Road transport remains affected in low-lying regions such as Andheri, Dadar, Chembur, and Panvel.
Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport recorded significant delays, with over 250 flights rescheduled since Monday. Airlines have advised passengers to check flight status before leaving for the airport.
Rainfall Data Across Mumbai
According to IMD records, Vikhroli received the highest rainfall at 223.5 mm, followed by Santacruz (206.6 mm), Byculla (184 mm), Juhu (148.5 mm), Bandra (132.5 mm), and Colaba (100.2 mm). These figures highlight the widespread and intense nature of the downpour across the city.
Looking Back at Mumbai’s Flood History
The current situation has revived memories of the devastating Mumbai floods of 2005 and 2017. Experts argue that unchecked urbanization, clogged drainage systems, and inadequate disaster planning continue to worsen monsoon-related damage.
Urban planners and environmentalists stress the urgent need for sustainable drainage solutions and better land-use policies to reduce recurring risks during heavy rainfall.
What Citizens Should Do
Authorities advise residents to stock essential supplies, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated via official advisories. Parents are urged to monitor school notifications closely. Travelers should check railway and flight updates before stepping out.
