Weather – Maharashtra Faces Severe Rainfall as Nashik Rescue Operation Highlights Flood Risk
Weather – Maharashtra continued to witness intense monsoon activity on Thursday as widespread rainfall disrupted daily life across several districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Nashik and the ghat regions of Pune, warning of extremely heavy rainfall at isolated locations along with strong winds reaching speeds of 60–70 kmph. Persistent showers led to waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and rising river levels in multiple parts of the state.
Red alert issued as rainfall intensifies
According to the IMD, the most severe weather conditions are expected in Nashik and the Pune Ghats, where exceptionally heavy rain could continue through the day. Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious, particularly in low-lying areas and locations vulnerable to flooding. Strong winds accompanying the rain are also expected to affect normal movement and outdoor activities.
The continuing downpour has caused water accumulation on roads in several districts, slowing transportation and creating difficulties for commuters. Emergency teams have been placed on alert in vulnerable regions as the state remains under close weather monitoring.
Flooded temple prompts rescue operation in Nashik
One of the most significant incidents occurred in Nashik, where two men became trapped inside a temple after floodwaters rapidly rose following overnight rainfall. The swelling Ganga-Godavari River overflowed into riverside religious sites, including the well-known Ram Kund area, leaving parts of the temple complex submerged.
The Nashik Fire Department launched a rescue operation using a boat and safely evacuated both individuals from the flooded premises. Officials confirmed that the rescue was completed without any reported injuries. The incident highlighted the speed at which water levels increased after continuous rainfall across the district.
Religious sites and low-lying areas affected
Flood-like conditions developed in several parts of Nashik city as river water spread into surrounding areas. A number of temples located along the riverbank experienced water ingress, while lower sections of religious complexes remained underwater due to the overflowing river.
Local authorities continued to monitor the situation and urged visitors to avoid entering riverside locations until water levels recede. Residents living near the river were also advised to remain alert as additional rainfall could further increase the risk of flooding.
Orange alert covers Mumbai and neighbouring districts
Apart from the red alert regions, the IMD has issued an orange alert for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, Ratnagiri and the ghat areas of Satara. These districts are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds during the day.
Officials have cautioned that intermittent heavy showers may lead to waterlogging in urban areas, reduced visibility on roads and temporary disruption to transport services. Civic agencies have been instructed to keep emergency response teams ready to address weather-related incidents if required.
Yellow alert remains in effect elsewhere
Several other districts across Maharashtra remain under a yellow alert. The weather department has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, light to moderate rainfall and gusty winds of 30–40 kmph at isolated places.
Authorities have advised people to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall and to follow official weather updates. Farmers, motorists and residents in flood-prone areas have also been encouraged to remain cautious as the active monsoon conditions are expected to persist.
With multiple districts under varying weather alerts, disaster management teams and local administrations continue to monitor the evolving situation, while emergency services remain prepared to respond wherever necessary.