Mumbai schools, colleges closed due to heavy rains: IMD issues red alert

Mumbai schools and colleges are shut today due to heavy rains and an IMD Red Alert. BMC advises residents to step out only if necessary.

In response to severe weather conditions, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) announced late Wednesday that all schools and colleges in Mumbai will remain closed today, Thursday, 26 September 2024. The decision was taken as a precautionary measure after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a Red Alert for the city, warning of worsening weather conditions.

The BMC notice stated, "The IMD has issued a Red Alert for Mumbai until 8:30 AM tomorrow morning. In light of this, all schools and colleges will remain closed for the safety of students." Residents were also advised to leave their homes only if necessary.

The IMD has forecast severe thunderstorms, lightning, and heavy rainfall across Mumbai and nearby areas, including Palghar and Satara. Winds are expected to reach speeds of 40-50 kmph, with the adverse weather likely to continue into the evening.

These extreme conditions have already disrupted daily life in Mumbai. Several flights at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport have been cancelled or diverted, with one Indigo flight rerouted to Ahmedabad after experiencing wind shear during landing.

Mumbai’s suburban rail network has also been impacted, with waterlogging causing delays of up to an hour on the Central Railway line, particularly in areas like Kurla, Bhandup, and Vikhroli.