Heavy rainfall lashed Mumbai on Tuesday, leading to major disruptions at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Airport authorities confirmed that at least eight flights were diverted between 9am and 9.50am, while departures and arrivals faced average delays of 45 minutes.

According to flight-tracking portal Flightradar, more than 150 departures and over 100 inbound flights were delayed during the day. The downpour also inundated low-lying neighbourhoods, paralysing road traffic and suburban train services, leaving thousands of commuters stranded.

Several airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet and Akasa Air, issued advisories to passengers, warning of possible delays and urging them to leave early for the airport due to waterlogged access roads. Passengers have been urged to check the status of flights with their respective airline before leaving for the airport.

• IndiGo: “It’s raining steadily in Mumbai, and the persistent weather is beginning to affect flight operations. Due to poor visibility and air traffic congestion, some flights are currently being held. Please be assured, our teams are working closely with air traffic control and will get you moving as soon as conditions allow. Before heading to the airport, please check your flight status on our website or app. Also, do allow some extra travel time; roads are likely to be slow-moving,” the airline said.
• Air India: “Mumbai is experiencing persistent rain, which may affect flight schedules. Check your flight status before you head out, and allow a little extra time for travel,” the airline posted on X (formerly Twitter).
• Akasa Air: Urged passengers to “plan for additional travel time to reach the airport well in time for your flight.”

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has placed Mumbai under a red alert, forecasting extremely heavy showers across the city and adjoining districts, with wind speeds of up to 60 km/h. Over the past 24 hours, several parts of Mumbai recorded more than 200 mm of rainfall.

Authorities announced the closure of government and semi-government offices, while private firms were advised to adopt work-from-home arrangements. Schools and colleges also remained shut.

Airport officials said they are closely coordinating with airlines and Air Traffic Control (ATC) to minimise disruption but warned that further delays and cancellations are possible in the coming days if heavy rains continue.

The UAE is set to experience unstable weather conditions starting Monday, August 18, with the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) forecasting rain, dust-stirring winds, cloud cover and hot conditions over several parts of the country.

The change in weather is due to the impact of a weak surface low-pressure system from the east, combined with a weak low-pressure system in the upper layers of the atmosphere.

Temperatures:

• Maximum: 30°C to 49°C
• Minimum: 25°C to 33°C

Weather forecast

• Monday, August 18
  • Clear to partly cloudy, cloudy at times in eastern and southern areas
  • Chance of light drizzles
  • Winds: Southeasterly to northeasterly, 10–25 km/h, reaching 35 km/h with dust at times
  • Sea: Regular waves in the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman
• Tuesday, August 19
  • Partly cloudy, with afternoon cumulus clouds forming in the east, possibly with rain
  • Winds: Southeasterly to northeasterly, 10–25 km/h, reaching 35 km/h with dust
  • Sea: Regular waves in both seas
• Wednesday, August 20
  • Partly cloudy to cloudy overall, with afternoon cumulus clouds and a chance of rain in the east
  • Winds: Southwesterly to northeasterly, 10–25 km/h, reaching 40 km/h with dust
  • Sea: Regular to moderate in the Arabian Gulf, regular in the Sea of Oman
• Thursday, August 21
  • Partly cloudy to cloudy in most areas, with rain expected across large parts of the country
  • Winds: Southeasterly to northeasterly, 10–25 km/h, reaching 40 km/h with dust
  • Sea: Regular to moderate in both the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman

Residents across the UAE are being urged to take precautions as a severe heatwave is set to grip the country this weekend, with temperatures expected to soar to 46°C in some areas.

According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), conditions will remain sunny and hazy, with high humidity in coastal areas adding to discomfort levels. Dusty weather is also likely in some regions, reducing visibility.

In Dubai, Friday’s temperatures could peak between 45°C and 46°C, making prolonged outdoor activities potentially dangerous.

On Saturday, highs of 44°C are forecast, with hazy skies and afternoon breezes offering little relief.

Sunday may bring slightly cooler conditions of around 42°C, though heat levels will remain extreme.

Authorities are advising residents to stay indoors during peak heat hours, stay hydrated, and wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses have been urged to take extra care.

Health experts warn that symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, or nausea could indicate heat exhaustion and should not be ignored.

Extreme heat spells are a regular feature of UAE summers, but this weekend’s conditions are expected to be among the hottest recorded this month.