Thunderstorm, light rain and gusty winds hit Mumbai on Monday, leading to collapse of multiple structures. Thirty five people have also been been injured after a billboard collapsed amid sudden change in the climate in Ghatkopar East area. Earlier, the Indian Meteorological Department issued alert that thunderstorm accompanied with lightning and moderate to intense spells of rain with gusty winds reaching 50-60 kmph are likely to occur at isolated places in the districts of Palghar and Thane during next 3-4 hours.
Flights diverted, metro service suspended
Meanwhile, few flights arriving to the Mumbai airport have been diverted due to poor viisibility. Metro services were suspended between Aarey and Andheri East metro stations after a banner landed on the overheard wire due to strong winds, a spokesperson from Metro Rail said.
Suburban services on Central Railway were affected after an overhead equipment pole between Thane and Mulund stations got bent due to strong winds, an official said. According to the chief spokesperson of Central Railway the suburban services on the Main Line have also been suspended.
The sudden gusty winds lowered the temperature in the city that was facing scorching heat since few days. The atmosphere mostly remained cloudy and rainy during the day. Last week the IMD had issued similar guidelines for Raigarh and Marathwada. According to the information received from the Meteorological Department, there is a possibility of strong winds at a speed of 50 to 60 kilometers within the next couple of hours and there is also a possibility of rain in some parts. Additionally, Thane and Palghar were alerted of being affected the most. Notably the latest rainfall and temperature falls comes after weeks of strong heat waves that gripped the nation.
