Pune, June 19 (UNI) The monsoon intensified over Maharashtra with India Meteorological Department issuing heavy rain alert on Thursday, forcing the authorities to declare holidays in schools of Raigad district.

Heavy rains, accompanied by gusty winds, lashed Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Pune and Navi Mumbai areas on Thursday.

The IMD said the monsoon will remain active in the state for the next four days. Due to the effect of cyclonic winds in various parts of the state and the active monsoon, rains are expected in Konkan, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada and Vidarbha regions and Palghar, Thane, Raigad, Pune and Ratnagiri in Konkan district.

Heavy rains have been lashing Pune for two days, leaving the residents in a state of panic. Sewer water has entered some housing societies in the city, forcing residents to complain to the civic agencies about the lack of measures to keep the areas safe and clean.

Meanwhile, an orange alert has been issued for Mumbai with IMD announcing heavy to very heavy rains. The Mumbai Regional Meteorological Centre has upgraded the yellow alert to orange alert. More than 70 mm rainfall is expected in Mumbai on Thursday, IMD said.

UNI SP PRS