Mumbai, June 12 — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall across Maharashtra between June 12 and June 17, with multiple districts placed under red and orange alerts. The alert comes as the southwest monsoon continues to strengthen and progress rapidly over western and central India.
According to the IMD’s latest bulletin, Konkan, Madhya Maharashtra, and Marathwada regions are likely to witness intense rainfall activity during the forecast period. Districts including Raigad, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Kolhapur, Pune, Nashik, and Thane are expected to experience particularly heavy rainfall.
A red alert has been issued for Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Kolhapur on June 14 and 15, warning of extremely heavy rainfall in isolated areas. Meanwhile, an orange alert has been placed for Mumbai, Thane, Pune, and Nashik from June 13 to 16, cautioning residents about the possibility of waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and localized flooding.
The IMD attributes this surge in rainfall to favorable monsoon conditions, including the formation of a low-pressure system over the Arabian Sea and the intensification of westerly winds. The monsoon, which made a normal onset over Kerala earlier this month, is now advancing swiftly across the Indian subcontinent.
In view of the alert, local authorities have been directed to activate disaster response mechanisms, especially in landslide-prone zones of the Western Ghats. The state disaster management department has urged citizens to stay indoors during heavy rainfall spells, avoid waterlogged areas, and follow official weather advisories.
The IMD has also highlighted the agricultural benefits of the early monsoon rains, particularly for farmers in Vidarbha and Marathwada, where sowing activities for kharif crops such as cotton and soybean are set to begin. However, agricultural experts have advised caution in low-lying areas that may experience flooding.
The rainfall is also expected to impact daily life in urban centers. In Mumbai, the municipal corporation has deployed additional pumping stations and emergency teams to address possible waterlogging. Commuters have been warned of potential delays in train and road transport due to reduced visibility and slippery conditions.
As the state prepares for a week of intense monsoon activity, the IMD continues to monitor the evolving weather pattern and is expected to issue updated forecasts daily.
