Situation Overview: Red and Orange Alerts Across Maharashtra
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a “red” alert for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and Raigad districts, signaling the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and lightning in isolated pockets. This red alert is set to remain in place through Monday morning. In parallel, an “orange” alert has been issued for several other districts including Nanded, Latur, Beed, Hingoli, Parbhani and Dharashiv, indicating heavy to very heavy rain in the next 24 to 72 hours. The weather department warns of potential inundation of low-lying areas and disruption to roads, rail, air and ferry services in the affected regions.
NDRF on High Alert and Immediate Relief Deployments
In response to the forecasted deluge, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) officials say teams have been kept on high alert in Mumbai, Thane, as well as Pune and Nagpur to ensure rapid mobilization and support to civic administrations. In total, six NDRF teams have been deployed across the state for immediate relief operations. Two teams have reached Solapur, two are in Dharashiv, with one team each in Beed and Latur districts, ready to tackle flooding, rescue operations and evacuation needs as the situation develops.
Affected Sectors: Agriculture, Infrastructure and Livelihoods
The Maharashtra government is actively distributing funds to flood-affected farmers to ensure aid reaches beneficiaries before Diwali, according to Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The postings come as Marathwada and adjoining regions have witnessed persistent heavy rains since September 20, resulting in crop losses and distress for farmers. The government has said crops have been damaged across lakhs of acres, underscoring the broader economic impact of the floods.
Political and Administrative Reactions
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has urged the government to undertake a complete loan waiver for Maharashtra’s farmers in light of the widespread crop damage and default risk facing arable land. He also called for a special legislature session to address the issue of relief and agricultural support, criticizing the ruling party’s governance during the crisis.
On-the-Ground Realities: Roads, Rivers and Rescue Efforts
Marathwada has faced particularly severe downpours, with many villages cut off and river systems swelling. Rescue teams are actively shifting stranded villagers as flooding disrupts rural connectivity. Officials report that the Manjara River is flowing at capacity, raising the possibility of floodwaters entering fields along the riverbanks if rains continue. In Dharashiv, authorities have closed roads, with NDRF teams coordinating with local agencies for rescue and relief operations in Bhum and Paranda talukas. Cities across the state have recorded significant rainfall in the 24 hours leading up to today, with the heaviest concentration reported in the island city division of Mumbai and nearby suburbs.
<h2 Weather Outlook and Public Advisory
The IMD warns that rainfall activity is set to intensify, with the potential for urban and rural flooding, flash floods and travel disruptions over the next few days. Officials urge residents to follow official guidance, avoid flood-prone areas and not travel to risky zones. People are advised not to shelter under trees during thunderstorms, avoid crossing waterlogged roads or bridges, and refrain from spreading rumors. The State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) will continue to monitor the situation and coordinate relief measures as needed.
What Residents Should Do
- Stay updated with official weather messages and SEOC advisories.
- Avoid unnecessary travel and seek higher ground if you are in flood-prone zones.
- Ensure households have essentials, including water, food, and medicines, and prepare an evacuation plan if authorities issue orders.
- Do not rely on rumors or social media for critical information.
