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Heavy storm hits Thane, Mumbra, & Dombivli, BMC issues weather warning

A powerful storm hit Mumbai, Thane, and nearby areas with strong winds and dust. IMD warns of a heatwave from April 5-8. AQI is at 90. BMC issued weather alerts. Experts link the storm to climate change and urban development.

By Ground Report Desk
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Heavy storm hits Thane, Mumbra, & Dombivli, BMC issues weather warning

Photo credit: X/@RiaSharma1125

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A powerful storm hit Thane, Mumbra, Kalyan, and Dombivli on Friday evening, April 4. Strong winds and dust spread to Navi Mumbai. Residents shared videos of heavy rain and dust storms moving from Kalyan toward Ulhasnagar and Mumbai.

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The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued a warning. In a post on X, it said, "Nowcast warning issued at 16:25 hours on 04 April 2025: Thunderstorms with lightning and light rain, along with gusty winds of 30-40 km/h, are likely in Mumbai over the next 3-4 hours. Please take precautions if stepping outside."

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned of a heatwave in Mumbai and nearby districts from April 5 to April 8. The alert mentions hot and humid conditions in some areas and advises residents to take precautions.

In another update, IMD stated, "Thunderstorms with lightning and light to moderate rain are likely in Konkan, Madhya Maharashtra, and Marathwada, with winds of 30-40 km/h."

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https://twitter.com/mybmc/status/1908077275364393165?

Mumbai’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was 90 on Friday, indicating satisfactory air quality. While most people may not be affected, those sensitive to pollution might face discomfort. An AQI below 50 is good, while levels above 300 are hazardous.

The weather department forecasts Mumbai’s temperature between 27°C and 34°C, with 61% humidity. Winds from the west will blow at 19 km/h.

Experts say high humidity and loose construction debris worsened the dust storm. Seasonal changes and rapid urban development created perfect conditions for it. The Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) region saw thick dust clouds and poor visibility.

IMD predicts gusty winds, thunder, and lightning in Mumbai and suburbs until April 4. Kalyan, Bhiwandi, and Ulhasnagar may see moderate thunderstorms, while Thane and Navi Mumbai may get light rain. Authorities advise people with respiratory issues to stay indoors and wear masks if going outside.

Experts warn that climate change and pollution could make such storms more common. The storm quickly trended on social media, with users posting videos and photos. One user on X wrote, "WEATHER ALERT! KDMC hit by sudden gusts and a dust storm! Temp dropped from 39°C to a dusty storm in 15 minutes!" Others expressed concerns about global warming and poor urban planning.

Mumbai’s unpredictable weather shows the city’s changing climate. Citizens and authorities must stay alert and prepare for sudden weather shifts. The rise in extreme weather highlights the need for better urban planning and climate action.

Under Section 152(A) of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888, BMC can impose a 200% property tax penalty for unauthorised buildings. This law allows the civic body to act against property owners violating city planning rules.

A senior BMC official said, "Many property owners challenge BMC notices in court, delaying demolitions. But penalties can still be imposed. That’s why we decided to levy a 200% property tax penalty."

Authorities continue to monitor the weather while enforcing laws to ensure public safety in Mumbai’s changing climate.

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