The monsoon season in Mumbai usually begins in June and lasts until October. The amount of rainfall in Mumbai can vary significantly from year to year. For instance, in 2019, Mumbai received a record-breaking 3,450 mm of rainfall, while in 2020, the city received around 1,200 mm of rainfall. Owing to its proximity to the Arabian sea, Mumbai often witnesses very heavy rainfall
especially in the months of July-August which can cause severe waterlogging.

Waterlogging and localized flooding is a common problem in Mumbai during the monsoon season. Inadequate and old drainage systems, clustered construction activity, and rising sea levels have been the contributing factors to widespread waterlogging in the city during the monsoon season.

Further, the disaster management authorities have identified over 20 hightide days between June-September 2023.

High Tide Days & Dates – Monsoon 2023

Flood

The flooding point as identified by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) are as follows-

Natural Disasters – Recorded in the Recent Past

Waterlogging in Mumbai has been a recurring issue, especially during the monsoon season. In 2020, the city experienced its worst flooding in decades, with several areas being inundated for days. The flooding caused widespread damage to property and infrastructure, and disrupted transportation and communication networks. In July 2019, the flooding killed over 100 people and displaced over 500,000 people.

Common Disruptions

Precautions by the Government:

• The State government rehabilitates the city’s drainage system by cleaning out drains and installing new pumps, especially near Milan subway and other flood-prone areas.
• Enforces building regulations that will prevent illegal construction from blocking natural drainage channels.
• Authorities also undertake preventive measures like raising sea walls to protect the city from rising sea levels.
• Installs automatic flood detection systems at chronic waterlogging spots. Nine reflection-based flood sensors will be set up at key locations such as Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) and Hiranandani Complex in Powai.
• The BMC has been working with various agencies to fill potholes using advanced geopolymer concrete.
• The civic authorities have also constructed pumping stations at Haji Ali, Reay Road, Worli’s Love Grove, Cleveland, and Juhu areas. These stations play a crucial role in preventing waterlogging as thousands of litres of water get pumped into the sea.

Reccomendations

For Organizations

• Advised to undertake flexible working arrangement and allow remote work on days with inclement weather conditions.
• Conduct regular servicing and audits of equipment, machinery, and facilities to ensure they are in optimal condition to withstand any damage that may occur due to thunderstorms or lightning strikes.
• Advised to inspect and reinforce the infrastructure of your business premises to withstand heavy rainfall and winds.
• Prepare for adequate backups to minimise the impact of power outages.
• Internet Wi-Fi/Network disruptions may occur, ensure standby alternatives.
• Advised to install flood control barrier system to prevent water from entering the premises.

For Individuals

• Advised to consider extra travel time as even low intensity rainfall may lead to severe congestion and consequent delays.
• Be cautious during thunderstorms: Seek shelter indoors during thunderstorms and remain vigilant of regular alerts and updates.
• Stay away from tall structures, trees, and open areas.
• Be cautious of frayed wires, electrical lines, and tree limbs.
• Unplug electronic devices to prevent damage from power surges during electrical storms.
• Use mosquito repellents and wear protective clothing.
• Taxi (online and offline) and delivery services tend to charge surge fees during rainfall. Advised to take the same into account and plan accordingly.
• Avoid consumption of unfiltered water or street food.
• MitKat advises to keep a fresh set of clothes in the office, have alternate routes mapped and carry electronic gadgets and important documents in waterproof bags.
• In case driving in low-lying areas, avoid hard accelerations and brakes; maintain a steady momentum and do not restart engine while the vehicle is stalled in water. For further safe driving guidelines, refer to MitKat’s Special Advisory on Safety Measures for Vehicles During Heavy Rainfall.

Emergency Contacts and Source Links –

• Weather Updates – RMC Mumbai (imd.gov.in)
• Traffic Updates – Mumbai Traffic Police (@MTPHereToHelp) / Twitter
• BMC – @mybmc
• Power Supply – Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Co. Ltd (@MSEDCL) / Twitter
• MSEDCL headquarters – 1800-212-3435 (toll free)
• BMC Electricity Board – +91-22-22856262