×

Assam Faces Rainfall Disparities Amid Ongoing Floods

Assam is currently grappling with severe flooding in several districts, while simultaneously facing significant rainfall deficits in others. With 17 districts reporting below-normal precipitation, Nalbari has the highest shortfall at 61%. The India Meteorological Department's data reveals that only a few areas have received excess rainfall, leading to a statewide deficit of 23%. This article delves into the contrasting weather patterns affecting the state, highlighting the challenges posed by both floods and insufficient rainfall.
 

Contrasting Weather Patterns in Assam

A file image of rain on city streets. (Representational Image)

Guwahati, Aug 7: While severe flooding continues to impact various districts in upper Assam, a notable contrast in weather conditions has emerged across the state. A total of 17 districts have reported below-average rainfall during this monsoon season, with Nalbari experiencing the most significant shortfall.

Data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicates that only three districts in Assam have seen above-normal rainfall from June 1 to August 5, while 12 districts have received adequate precipitation.

Charaideo has recorded a 45% increase in rainfall, followed by Lakhimpur at 26% and Majuli at 31%.

Conversely, 17 districts have experienced below-normal rainfall, with many reporting deficits exceeding 50%.

Nalbari leads with a 61% deficit, categorizing it as “largely deficient.” Other districts with significant shortfalls include Dima Hasao (59%), Kamrup (57%), Goalpara (55%), Bongaigaon (54%), Udalguri (54%), and Nagaon (51%).

Additional districts have also faced considerable rainfall deficits, such as Darrang with a 42% shortfall, Hojai and Morigaon at 44% each, Chirang at 37%, Karbi Anglong at 34%, Dhubri at 28%, Barpeta at 26%, and Bajali at 38%.

Interestingly, Sivasagar, which has been heavily impacted by flooding this season, has also reported a 30% rainfall deficit.

In total, Assam has received 702 mm of rainfall against a normal of 912.5 mm from June 1 to August 5, resulting in a statewide deficit of 23%.

In comparison, neighboring Arunachal Pradesh has experienced a 36% deficit during the same timeframe, while Meghalaya has reported a 31% shortfall. Nagaland has seen a lesser impact, with only a 6% decrease in rainfall compared to normal levels.