Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the next 48 hours will be very important as heavy rains continue. Areas including Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg remain on high alert. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for the Konkan region, which includes Mumbai and nearby ghat areas, warning of extremely heavy rainfall until August 20.
On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, the rains showed no sign of stopping for the second day. In the Nanded district, eight people tragically lost their lives due to flooding caused by a cloudburst-like event. Meanwhile, Mumbai recorded a record-breaking rainfall of about 300 mm, Chief Minister Fadnavis said, marking one of the heaviest downpours in recent years.
The red alert for Mumbai and surrounding districts will stay in effect until the morning of Wednesday, August 20, as the IMD continues to monitor the situation closely. Authorities have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to stay indoors if possible during this critical period.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar shared that over 10 lakh acres of farmland across Maharashtra have been flooded, threatening the kharif crop season. Farmers in districts such as Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara have been severely affected. Relief teams are being deployed to assist with rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is closely watching the Mithi River and other water bodies, which have risen dangerously high. The BMC has intensified pumping operations at vulnerable spots to prevent severe waterlogging, but certain low-lying areas like Andheri, Chembur, and Bandra have already experienced significant flooding.
Public transport disruption continues as Central Railway has suspended local train services on the harbour line between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Kurla stations due to flooded tracks. Commuters have been advised to seek alternative travel arrangements until services resume.
IndiGo Airlines issued a travel advisory warning passengers flying from Mumbai about possible delays. Many routes to the airport face waterlogging, slowing traffic and complicating logistics for travellers. Passengers should regularly check flight statuses using the IndiGo app or the official airline website to avoid inconvenience.
The Mumbai Police and disaster management teams are on high alert, actively conducting rescue operations and monitoring potentially hazardous zones across the city and nearby districts. Emergency helplines have been set up for citizens needing assistance.
Meanwhile, the power supply in some parts of Mumbai has been affected due to waterlogged substations. Electric utility companies are working to restore service as quickly as possible.
Experts warn that this intense rainfall is linked to a strong monsoon system enhanced by climate change, leading to more frequent and severe weather events. Officials have urged the public to stay cautious and follow government advisories in the coming days.