Date: August 18, 2025
Location: Mumbai
Heavy rainfall battered several parts of *Mumbai on Monday (August 18), causing waterlogging, traffic chaos, and flight disruptions. The *India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for extremely heavy rain in the city.
Waterlogging and Traffic Disruptions
Several areas in Mumbai were badly hit:
- Western Express Highway (Vile Parle): Traffic slowed down.
- Gandhi Market, Sion: Severe waterlogging reported.
- Andheri Subway: Closed due to flooding.
Commuters struggled through long delays, while local trains also witnessed crowding.
BMC Declares School Holiday
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) announced a holiday for all schools, including afternoon shifts. Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani directed civic departments to remain on high alert and respond quickly to emergency calls.
Citizens were advised to step out only if necessary and contact the BMC helpline (1916) for official assistance.
Rainfall Data (0830 hrs to 1130 hrs, August 18, 2025)
- Tata Power Chembur: 91.5 mm
- Vikhroli: 78.5 mm
- Juhu: 60.0 mm
- Sion: 58.5 mm
- Bandra: 50.0 mm
- Santacruz: 47.2 mm
- Colaba: 29.0 mm
Airlines Issue Travel Advisories
Air travel was also impacted. Akasa Air and IndiGo issued advisories urging passengers to plan extra travel time to the airport.
- Akasa Air on X: Asked travelers in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Goa, and Pune to leave early due to waterlogging and slow traffic.
- IndiGo on X: Highlighted delays on roads to Mumbai airport and advised passengers to check live flight updates on its app and website.
Both airlines assured passengers that airport teams were prepared to assist.
Key Takeaways
- IMD Red Alert: Warning for extremely heavy rainfall in Mumbai.
- Schools Shut: BMC declared holiday across all schools.
- Traffic Hit: Key roads and subways flooded, slowing movement.
- Flights Affected: Akasa Air and IndiGo advised early travel to airports.
Why It Matters
This heavy downpour highlights Mumbai’s recurring monsoon challenges. The combination of waterlogging, traffic snarls, and airline disruptions reminds citizens to stay cautious and follow civic advisories during extreme weather.