Rain prediction just 48 hours earlier

The first monsoon showers are just around the corner, but Meteorological Department officials are non-committal on the day the black clouds will hit Mumbai.

According to the latest reports of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the monsoon has arrived in Mangalore, but will take another 10 days to reach Mumbai, making June 6 a likely date for the first
showers.

R Sharma, Deputy Director, IMD said, "The pre-monsoon showers have already reached Goa and will benefit the farmers in Maharashtra."

However, the rains could advance or get delayed depending on several factors like speed and direction of wind. "We are able to predict only 48 hours before the monsoon arrives in Mumbai," said K Sathi Devi, Treasurer and Director, Indian Meteorological Society (Mumbai).

Out of radar

The IMD has got a Doppler radar, but that will only start functioning by June 30. Till last year, non-availability of this radar was considered the reason behind inaccurate information on rain clouds. Yet, this radar cannot avoid another 26/7 like deluge. In a recent press conference R Sharma had said that the device would only help them assess current weather patterns, every 15 minutes, rather than provide long-term forecast.

Operation clean-up
Measures of improving the pumping stations at Haji Ali and Irla that will help flood-prone areas of Grant Road, Sleater Road, Nana Chowk, Mumbai Central, Vile Parle and JVPD Scheme are in full flow.

Pumps are also placed at subways like Milan subway, and Malad subway. Ham radios too are being ordered that will help BMC communicate during heavy rains coupled with high tides. The railway has also augmented its drains and nullahs.