Schools shut as IMD forecasts 'extremely heavy rainfall' in Mumbai

All schools and junior colleges in Mumbai have been shut after met department on Wednesday (September 18) forecast “extremely heavy rainfall” over the next 48 hours in Mumbai and adjoining Raigad district.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red rain alert, indicating “extremely heavy rainfall”, for Mumbai and Raigad districts, said an IMD official. This indicates precipitation of more than 204 mm in 24 hours starting Thursday morning, he added.

On Wednesday (September 18) night Versova recorded 50 mm rain within three hours, KS Hosalikar, Deputy Director-General of Meteorology, IMD, Mumbai said.

Following the weather alert, Ashish Shelar, Maharashtra Minister of School Education tweeted, “In view of heavy rainfall forecasts, a holiday is declared for all schools & junior colleges in Mumbai, Thane and Konkan region today. District collectors in other parts of Maharashtra to decide, based on local conditions.”

In view of heavy rainfall forecasts. As a precautionary measure, holiday is declared for all schools & junior colleges in Mumbai, Thane, Konkan region for today 19 Sep 2019. District collectors in other parts of Maharashtra to decide, based on local conditions. #rain

— ashish shelar (@ShelarAshish) September 18, 2019

Apart from Mumbai, Palghar and Thane are also expected to receive heavy to very heavy rain.

(With inputs from agencies)