Mumbai Rains Red Alert: Schools and Colleges Closed as IMD Warns of Heavy Rainfall on August 19

Mumbai Rains Red Alert has been issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), warning of heavy to very heavy showers in the city and surrounding districts. In view of the forecast, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced that all schools and colleges in Mumbai will remain closed on Tuesday, August 19.

The continuous downpour has already caused severe waterlogging, traffic congestion, and train delays across several parts of the financial capital. Many low-lying areas including Vikhroli, Chembur, Santacruz, Juhu, and Andheri witnessed flooding on Monday. Vikhroli recorded the highest rainfall at 135.5 mm, followed by Chembur (124 mm), Santacruz (123.9 mm), and Juhu (123.5 mm).

BMC officials confirmed that schools of all mediums and managements have been given a precautionary holiday. The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has also declared a holiday for schools in its jurisdiction on August 18 and 19 due to incessant rainfall.

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The red alert, the highest in IMD’s warning system, covers several regions including Borivali, Thane, Kalyan, Mulund, Powai, Chembur, Worli, Navi Mumbai, and Colaba. Apart from Mumbai, Ratnagiri, Raigad, and the Ghats of Pune, Satara, and Kolhapur are also under red alert, while Palghar, Sindhudurg, and Jalgaon have been placed on an orange alert.

Authorities have cautioned residents to avoid coastal areas during high tide, with waves expected to reach 3.0 to 3.4 meters. Several airlines have issued advisories, while train services continue with minor delays due to waterlogging on tracks.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reviewed the situation through a virtual meeting with civic and disaster management officials. Rescue teams remain on alert as Mumbai’s lakes are reported to be nearly 90% full, ensuring adequate water supply despite uneven rainfall in catchment zones.

With heavy rainfall predicted to continue for the next 24 hours, civic bodies have urged citizens to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow official weather updates.