Maharashtra: IMD issues heavy rainfall warning till April 24; several parts of Maharashtra to be affected

Representational image. File pic

The Maharashtra State Emergency Action Centre, during the late hours of Monday, has appealed to the districts of Madhya Maharashtra, Vidarbha, Marathwada and Konkan to be alert. The warning issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday released a five-day forecast stating that there is a possibility of gale-force winds, lightning, hail and rain in various parts of the state from April 20 to 24.

As per IMD, Mumbai is also likely to experience light to moderate rainfall on Tuesday, April 21. The weather agency predicted a partly cloudy sky with the possibility of the development of thunder and lightning across the city.

IMD, while predicting heavy rain and thunderstorms for the next few days, has urged the citizens to take necessary precautions, as per ANI.

While issuing the advisory, the weather agency also highlighted that, as soon as lightning is heard or flashes are seen, citizens are advised to seek shelter at home or in a safe place immediately and to avoid standing under trees, in open fields, near water or near iron objects.

The citizens are also advised not to use mobile phones or other electronic devices in open spaces. If away from shelter, people should sit down with legs together without lying on the floor.

Authorities asked to stay on alert

With a heavy rainfall warning issued, the Gram Panchayat, police and health departments are asked to immediately create public awareness. Ambulance, fire brigade and emergency teams are to be kept ready.

Schools, auditoriums and public buildings must be kept open for safe shelter. The State Emergency Action Center has urged the circulation of the updated warnings of the IMD to be immediately conveyed to the village level.

Moreover, farmers are advised to avoid field work during the lightning warning period. Work at construction sites should be stopped temporarily.

The authorities have also been asked to call for immediate suspension of yatras, religious events and large gatherings.

The State Emergency Operations Centre has instructed all the concerned agencies to be alert and appealed to the citizens not to believe rumours but to follow the official instructions.

(With inputs from ANI)