The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert for several districts in Maharashtra, forecasting intense weather activity including heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds over the next five days starting Thursday, May 22, 2025.
According to the IMD bulletin released at 2:03 PM, districts like Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Palghar are likely to witness extremely heavy rainfall and gusty winds reaching 50-60 kmph. An orange alert has been issued for Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar for May 23 and 24, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall. Meanwhile, Raigad district is under a red alert for May 23, indicating a high risk of extremely heavy rainfall and severe weather conditions. The alert extends to other regions such as Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Nasik, and Sindhudurg, where heavy to very heavy rainfall and thunderstorms with lightning are expected to continue through May 26.
It’s going to be a very wet weekend for Mumbai based on IMD district forecast. An orange alert has been given for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar for May 23-24 while Raigad is under RED alert for May 23. pic.twitter.com/zlDqtRtKBL
— Richa Pinto (@richapintoi) May 22, 2025
Mumbai is expected to see thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, heavy rain, and strong winds on May 22, with intensity increasing to very heavy rainfall on May 23 and 24. Moderate rain is forecast thereafter.
The IMD has issued a “Very Likely” probability warning for all days, indicating a high likelihood of the predicted weather patterns.
Expected Impacts:
- Possible lightning strikes and damage to weak trees or structures
- Localised power outages
- Damage to standing crops, plantations, and horticulture
- Minor structural damage in rural areas
Safety Measures Advised:
- Avoid open areas and water bodies during thunderstorms
- Do not seek shelter under trees
- Unplug electronic appliances
- Secure loose objects and support young plants
- Postpone chemical spraying and irrigation in farms
- Shelter livestock and store harvested crops properly
Farmers are particularly advised to complete harvesting of mature crops immediately and avoid further irrigation, as heavy rainfall and winds could damage crops and stored produce.
This widespread alert follows increasing monsoon activity influenced by a cyclonic circulation over Haryana and an east-west trough running across North India. The system is drawing moisture from both the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, causing instability in the region.
Residents across affected districts are urged to stay updated via official IMD bulletins and follow local advisories. No major disruptions have been reported yet, but authorities are on high alert.