Heavy rains forecast in Maharashtra; govt issues advisory

Mumbai, Sep 26 (PTI) The Maharashtra government on Friday evening issued an advisory urging people to remain cautious following a forecast of heavy to very heavy rainfall across several parts of the state over the next three days.

A release from the Revenue and Forest Department said that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in central Maharashtra, Konkan and Vidarbha between September 27 and 29.

Orange and red alerts have been issued for certain districts, with instructions for precautionary and preparatory measures to be taken through the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC).

According to the advisory, central Maharashtra and Konkan are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places between September 27 and 29, with extremely heavy showers likely in some areas on September 28.

Vidarbha may record light to moderate rain at several places, along with heavy rainfall at some locations on September 27.

Marathwada -- already reeling under heavy rains -- is likely to receive light to moderate rain between September 26 and 29, with chances of heavy to very heavy rainfall on September 27 and 28.

The government has appealed to the public to follow official instructions, avoid hazardous zones and refrain from travelling to flood-prone areas.

People have been advised not to take shelter under trees during thunderstorms, and to ensure all precautions are taken for flood safety.

Residents in affected regions should use local relief shelters if necessary and avoid unnecessary travel during flood situations. People have also been strictly cautioned against crossing waterlogged roads or bridges, and urged not to spread or believe rumours, the release said. PTI ND KRK