As Monsoon arrives in Delhi, Mumbai simultaneously after 62 years, heavy rain prediction in these cities

In a first in the last six decades, Delhi and Mumbai saw the arrival of monsoon on the same day on June 25, 2023. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the monsoon arrived two days ahead of schedule in Delhi, while Mumbai's onset was delayed by 14 days, culminating in an unprecedented synchronized arrival.

Monsoon Hitting Mumbai, Delhi Simultaneously for the First Time in 62 years

For the first time since June 1961, the monsoon arrived inMumbai and Delhi on the same day. This unique meteorological event is drawing the attention of climatologists and weather experts. This simultaneous arrival is an exceptional occurrence considering the geographical distance and different climatic zones of the two cities.

Historically, the monsoon hits Mumbai on the west coast before it progresses to the northern parts of the country, including Delhi. This year, however, due to various atmospheric conditions and climate phenomena, both cities are experiencing monsoon showers at the same time. This has led to disruptions in daily life due to waterlogging and traffic jams, but also relief from the summer heat.

Cyclonic Circulation Over Bay of Bengal

This unusual weather pattern has been partly attributed to the cyclonic circulation developing over the Bay of Bengal. The Bay of Bengal is known to be a significant birthplace for many of the devastating cyclones that hit the eastern coast of India. The cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal this time has caused an increased moisture inflow towards the Indian mainland, contributing to the early and simultaneous onset of the monsoon in Mumbai and Delhi. As per IMD, the cyclonic circulation was located around the northwestern parts of the Bay of Bengal, with the system extending up to middle tropospheric levels.

What IMD's Yellow alerts mean for the cities

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recently issued Yellow alerts for both Mumbai and Delhi.

#WATCH | IMD issues yellow alert for Mumbai city; heavy rain lashes parts of city.

Visuals from Hindmata pic.twitter.com/KtmxCDaRX1

— ANI (@ANI) June 24, 2023

#WATCH | IMD issues yellow alert for Mumbai city; rain lashes parts of city.

As per IMD, Southwest Monsoon has advanced over Mumbai and Delhi today, 25th June. pic.twitter.com/u622cJRPnD

— ANI (@ANI) June 25, 2023

A Yellow warning indicates severely bad weather over the next few days. This could include conditions such as heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, or high winds.

In the context of Mumbai and Delhi, the Yellow alerts signify that the cities need to be prepared for significant weather changes that could impact daily life. This could mean potential disruptions in transport, power outages, and a high risk of flooding in low-lying areas. Residents are advised to keep updated with the latest weather forecasts and follow any advice given by local authorities.

The weather agency has predicted heavy to very heavy rain for Chhattisgarh on June 26, Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region on June 26 and eastern Madhya Pradesh on both June 26 and 27. The western parts of Madhya Pradesh will see heavy to very heavy rain for next two days while eastern Rajasthan will witness similar weather conditions on June 28, according to IMD.

Heavy to very heavy rain is also expected in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Guajarat, Central Maharashtra, Assam, Meghalaya, Konkan region and Goa between June 26 to June 29, according to IMD forecast.

Heavy to Extremely Heavy rainfall warning with expected impact and recommended action. #india #heavyrain #WeatherUpdates #veryheavyrain#extremeweather @moesgoi @DDNewslive @ndmaindia @airnewsalerts pic.twitter.com/pbqntOMwdx

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) June 25, 2023

The Interpretation of IMD's colour-coded warning scheme

India Meteorological Department employs a system of warnings divided into four colors to inform citizens about anticipated weather patterns. Here's what each colour represents:

1. Green: This implies that no special measures need to be taken. It signifies that the expected meteorological conditions will be average or gentle.

2. Yellow: This level of alertness urges the public to keep an eye on the evolving weather scenario. It hints at possible transformations or worsening of weather conditions within the next few days that could lead to occasional disturbances.

3. Orange: This color represents the prediction of harsh weather. The possibilities of encountering effects from such severe weather are heightened, causing potential disruptions, endangering life, and damaging property.

4. Red: This suggests the anticipation of extremely adverse weather. Being the most severe level of warning, it portrays a situation of severe weather causing significant disturbances, resulting in extensive damage and threat to human life.

The main objective of this stratified color warning system is to facilitate a better understanding of the severity associated with the forecasted weather and provoke appropriate reactions to safeguard individual safety.