Severe Thunderstorm Alert in Maharashtra: IMD Issues Red Warning for Heavy Rain and Lightning

Red Alert for Maharashtra: IMD Warns of Severe Thunderstorms and Heavy Rainfall

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert across several districts of Maharashtra, warning of severe thunderstorms, intense lightning activity, and extremely heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours. As of June 5, 2025, cities including Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Nagpur, Kolhapur, and Aurangabad are expected to witness sudden weather changes, bringing with them the risk of flash floods, waterlogging, and power outages.

According to the IMD official bulletin, the weather system currently developing over the Arabian Sea is intensifying, drawing significant moisture over the western coast and central regions of Maharashtra. The department has urged residents to remain indoors during peak storm hours and avoid open areas prone to lightning strikes.

Areas Under Red Alert

As per the IMD’s forecast model, the following regions are most at risk:

• Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR): High probability of waterlogging and traffic gridlocks.

• Konkan and Goa belt: Heavy rainfall expected with wind gusts exceeding 40–50 km/h.

• Marathwada & Vidarbha: Likely to experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and localized hailstorms.

• Western Ghats region: Risk of landslides due to soil saturation from continued rain.

For district-wise alert updates, residents can refer to the IMD Alerts Dashboard, which offers real-time weather maps and radar monitoring.

Why This Alert Matters: The Science Behind It

Meteorologists at Skymet Weather explain that a strong monsoonal trough, combined with a cyclonic circulation near the Konkan coast, is causing intense vertical cloud development—leading to thunderstorms and heavy precipitation.

Dr. Mritunjay Mohapatra, Director-General of IMD, mentioned in a press conference that climate volatility has increased the frequency of such extreme weather events. "June has historically seen moderate pre-monsoon rainfall, but this year's moisture content and surface temperatures are causing more violent cloudbursts and thunder activity," he said.

Impact on Daily Life

The red alert is not just a weather bulletin—it has serious implications for infrastructure, transportation, and public safety. Here's what residents are already reporting:

• Mumbai: Waterlogging in low-lying areas like Andheri, Kurla, and Sion. Several local trains were delayed by over 30 minutes this morning.

• Pune: Power outages and fallen trees in multiple areas like Kothrud and Hadapsar.

• Nagpur: Disruption in flight schedules and localized flash floods.

• Aurangabad: Closure of certain schools and advisories issued to farmers to protect standing crops.

To stay updated, follow Maharashtra State Disaster Management Authority (MSDMA) and local news channels broadcasting hourly updates.

Safety Advisory for Citizens

In view of the IMD’s red alert, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued the following precautions:

1. Avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary.

2. Stay away from trees, electric poles, and open water sources during thunderstorms.

3. Secure loose items on terraces or balconies.

4. Farmers are advised to delay pesticide spray and harvesting activities until further notice.

5. Keep emergency kits ready, including flashlights, batteries, clean water, and dry food.

A full list of disaster preparedness tips can be found on the NDMA’s official guidelines page.

Historical Context: Is This Unusual?

While Maharashtra is no stranger to heavy rainfall during monsoons, the intensity and unpredictability of thunderstorms in recent years are raising concerns. According to a 2023 report by Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), India has seen a 16% increase in extreme weather events over the last five years, with Maharashtra topping the list in thunderstorm-related fatalities.

This underscores the growing importance of early warning systems and community-based preparedness initiatives. In 2021, the government of Maharashtra launched the MahaWeather App, which continues to serve as a vital tool for citizens tracking hyperlocal weather updates.

What’s Next: Forecast for the Coming Week

According to IMD's extended outlook, the monsoon is expected to advance further into Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh by June 8, with continued thunderstorm activity in central Maharashtra and Vidarbha until at least June 10.

The department will issue hourly updates via its Nowcast service for real-time alerts, which citizens can subscribe to via SMS or mobile apps.

Conclusion

The red alert issued by IMD is a clear warning: Maharashtra must brace for a turbulent start to the 2025 monsoon season. While the government is ramping up disaster readiness, individual responsibility will play a crucial role in minimizing the impact of this extreme weather phase.

Whether you're in an urban hub or a rural pocket, staying informed, prepared, and cautious is essential right now. Keep an eye on trusted sources and avoid complacency—it’s better to be safe than stranded.