The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Mumbai and its surrounding areas, predicting extremely heavy rainfall on Friday, 4 July 2026. In response, authorities have declared a holiday for all schools in Thane, Kalyan, and Dombivli to ensure the safety of students.
IMD Red Alert Details
The IMD's red alert indicates the likelihood of very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, with some areas expected to receive over 200 mm of rain in 24 hours. The alert covers Mumbai city, its suburbs, and neighboring districts. The weather department has warned of potential waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and landslides in vulnerable areas.
Precautionary Measures
Municipal corporations in Thane, Kalyan, and Dombivli announced the closure of all schools and educational institutions for the day. The decision was taken to avoid any risk to children and staff due to the predicted heavy downpour. Parents have been advised to keep children indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
According to a Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) official, "We are closely monitoring the situation. Citizens are advised to stay away from low-lying areas and follow safety guidelines." The BMC has also deployed emergency response teams and pumps to manage waterlogging.
Impact on Commuters
The heavy rains are expected to disrupt local train services, which are the lifeline of Mumbai. The Central and Western Railway have announced that they will run trains at reduced speeds if visibility is poor. Commuters are advised to check for updates before heading out. The Mumbai Traffic Police has also issued an advisory, urging people to avoid non-essential travel.
Previous Rainfall Data
In June 2026, Mumbai recorded 35% excess rainfall compared to the normal average. The IMD has attributed the current spell to a low-pressure area over the Arabian Sea, which is likely to intensify in the next 24 hours. The red alert is expected to remain in effect until Saturday morning.
