Mumbai endured its most intense monsoon spell in years from August 18–20. The city received over 300 mm of rain in just 24 hours, submerging neighborhoods in up to knee-deep water and triggering emergency alerts across the region. The relentless precipitation halted local train services, grounded flights, and brought daily life to an abrupt standstill.
The Mithi River surged dangerously close to its banks, forcing the relocation of 350 residents in Kurla. Rescue teams—including NDRF, SDRF, and local volunteers—evacuated stranded commuters and motorists while the municipal corporation activated helplines and deployed traffic and water-pumping units citywide.
Tragically, six people lost their lives due to rain-related incidents, including electrocution and building collapses. Another individual was swept away in a quarry in Thane, emphasizing the severity of the event.
Schools, colleges, and government offices were canceled on August 19 as waterlogging intensified. Power disruptions followed as utility operators shut off electricity in knee-deep water zones, including Kurla, Andheri, and Kandivli, affecting over 25,000 families.
By August 19, more than 16.4 billion liters (4.35 billion gallons) of water had been pumped out using six primary stations and over 500 auxiliary units—more than double the capacity of Tansa Lake. Authorities warned that water levels remained critical, and that additional rainfall could raise flood risks further.
Though the India Meteorological Department expected the rainfall to ease, it cautioned that erratic showers could continue. Cities like Raigad and Thane also received substantial rainfall, suggesting that the broader regional impact may persist beyond the capital.
The flooding reignited memories of the catastrophic 2005 deluge, fueling public frustration with authorities. Social media was flooded with comparisons to the “city of despair,” sparking debates about infrastructure readiness and the urgent need for climate-resilient urban planning.
