Even though Mumbai has already braced itself for downpours, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has said there has been a forecast for "heavy to very heavy" rainfall across Konkan and Goa, including Mumbai.
Mumbaikars, hold on to your umbrellas tight as what you are witnessing on Friday could simply be the start to heavy rainfall for the next couple of days.
Even though Mumbai has already braced itself for downpours, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has said there has been a forecast for "heavy to very heavy" rainfall across Konkan and Goa, including Mumbai.
"There are two reasons for this — a cyclonic circulation in the South Gujarat region and an offshore trough running along Karnataka that is typical of monsoon, and both these are likely to bring in good rains over the next couple of days," said KS Hosalikar, deputy director-general, IMD.
Speaking on the issue, with June so far being rain deficient for Mumbai, Hosalikar said the monsoon is building up, and with forecast of heavy rains, the situation could change by month-end.
On an average, June receives 523mm of rain. This year, since Thursday, rains that have picked up, after a delay of 10 days, and got intense on Friday, bringing much relief to the city.
Rainy weekend
Mumbaikars have already begun planning weekend sojourns to Lonavala, Matheran, Bushi dam and Malshej Ghat among other places.
"Since it's already been forecast that there will be heavy rains, I have planned a trip to Matheran with friends," said Anil Kubal, a Goregaon resident.
BMC's disaster management cell too has been busy answering phone calls, even as officials have asked for patrolling by police as well as lifeguards along sea-facing areas.
"Several people rush to enjoy rains at Marine Drive, Bandra Bandstand, Carter Road and even beaches, and, in their frolic, forget the risk involved. Hence, we have requested our staff as well as the police to keep patrolling such areas," said a BMC official.
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