In what could be a prelude to the monsoon, Mumbai was hit by sudden thunderstorms, lightning, and heavy showers on Tuesday, disrupting traffic and daily life across the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted more rainfall for the financial capital and surrounding areas till May 24, as a cyclonic circulation forms over the east-central Arabian Sea.
Officials told news agency PTI that the eastern and western suburbs witnessed more intense downpours than the city centre, leading to waterlogging in some parts and slower traffic movement during peak hours.
According to the IMD, parts of Maharashtra, including Mumbai, south Konkan, and south-central Maharashtra, are likely to face heavy rainfall accompanied by thunder and gusty winds over the next few days.
A cyclonic circulation is likely to develop over the Arabian Sea off the Karnataka coast, with a low-pressure area forming around May 22. This weather system is expected to intensify and move northwards, increasing rain activity across coastal Maharashtra.
Shubhangi Bhute, an official from the IMD, warned: "There is a possibility of heavy rainfall with thunder at some places, accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph or possibly higher at isolated locations."
What to Expect in Mumbai and Surrounding Areas:
May 21–24: Intermittent heavy showers with thunderstorms
Wind Gusts: Likely between 30–40 kmph
Traffic: Slowdowns and possible waterlogging in low-lying areas
Meanwhile, Delhi is also likely to get relief from the ongoing heatwave, with the IMD forecasting thunderstorms and rain on May 21 and 22. On Tuesday, Delhi recorded a temperature of 41.8°C, with high humidity levels adding to the discomfort.
A study by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) warned that Delhi faces “very high heat risk” due to rising night-time temperatures, humidity, and heat exposure in densely populated areas.
In the east, West Bengal is bracing for heavy rains in northern districts like Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri, and thunderstorms in southern districts like Purulia, Bankura, and Hooghly, influenced by a cyclonic circulation over North Bangladesh and winds from the Bay of Bengal.
