Stormy days ahead for Mumbaikars, warns Met department

Mumbaikars enduring the sweltering heat can expect some relief, as the regional meteorological centre has predicted thunderstorms in the next 12 hours.

The weather department has issued a warning to the BMC's Disaster Management Cell about the possibility of dust storm, lightning and rainfall across Mumbai. Pic/Sayed Sameer Abedi

The weather department has issued a warning to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) Disaster Management Cell (DMC) about the possibility of dust storm, lightning and rainfall across Mumbai.

'Expected'
Attributed to the pre-monsoon season, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that the expected thunderstorm is a precursor to the monsoon season.

Khopoli witnessed dust storm and rainfall on Wednesday afternoon

VK Rajeev, director of IMD said, "It is not an unusual occurrence; we expect light rainfall around this time every year. After recording pictures of clouds approaching the city on Wednesday, we informed the civic body's disaster management cell."

On Wednesday afternoon, the area of Khopoli witnessed dust storm and heavy rainfall. Mumbai residents were also surprised to experience cloudy weather, followed by an increase in dust levels after 3 pm.

"The rise in dust was caused by localised winds blowing across the city, which could also be a combination of northwesterly winds. The thundershowers are approaching from the eastern side of the state, moving towards the west. However, it is difficult to assess the speed of the wind," said Rajeev.

BMCspeak
The DMC is preparing itself for any kind of calamity, after they were informed about the impending thunderstorm by the weather department. Mahesh Narvekar, chief officer of DMC, said, "We have been informed by the department and are preparing accordingly.

We have informed all fire stations to remain alert for any form of emergency. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team and hospitals have been kept in the loop."