The India Meteorological Department today issued a red alert for Mumbai, the nation's financial center, after the city recorded over 200 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours. The department forecasts continued heavy rain and strong gusty winds.

The heavy downpour has submerged many roads, forcing the closure of several highways and disrupting air and rail traffic. Mumbai authorities have ordered all schools and higher education institutions to close for the day.

Heavy rain caused flooding in many areas of Mumbai on 6/7. Video: Weather Monitor

Mumbai mayor Ritu Tawde reported that at least six people, including five children, died, and many were trapped under rubble after several multi-story houses collapsed in a slum in Mankhurd, eastern Mumbai.

Mayor Tawde urged residents to limit outdoor travel unless absolutely necessary, also warning of the risk of falling trees due to strong winds. Local media reported at least three deaths since late last month from trees falling on Mumbai streets.

The monsoon season brings essential water for the agriculture and industry that support hundreds of millions of Indians. However, climate change is altering weather patterns, making the world's most populous nation hotter and subject to more severe extreme weather events.

Vehicles navigate a flooded road in Mumbai on 4/7. Photo: Reuters

This heavy rainfall in Mumbai follows weeks of intense heat and severe water shortages. Last month, city authorities imposed water use restrictions, cutting off supplies to swimming pools and construction sites.

The city, home to over 20 million residents, also faces growing concerns about increasing pressure on water resources due to the expansion of data center infrastructure. These centers require significant amounts of water for cooling, which could further exacerbate existing water supply strains.

Huyen Le (According to AFP, The Hindu, Reuters)