Severe Rainfall Forecasted in Assam: IMD Issues Alerts

The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for Assam, predicting a prolonged period of heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds. Residents are advised to stay alert and follow safety guidelines as the weather is expected to remain unstable across the Northeast. With significant rainfall already recorded, officials are monitoring flood-prone areas closely. This weather pattern is anticipated to continue, affecting travel and daily activities. Stay tuned for updates on this developing situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 15, 2026, 16:48 IST

Heavy Rainfall Expected in Assam

A file image of heavy rainfall in Guwahati (Photo: @ChinmoyZenith / X)

Guwahati, May 15: Assam is set to experience an extended period of heavy to very heavy rainfall in the coming days, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds across various districts until May 21.

The latest bulletin from the IMD indicates that southern Assam will face very heavy rainfall on Friday, with heavy precipitation expected to persist across Assam and Meghalaya from May 15 to 21.

The weather agency has cautioned that thunderstorms, along with lightning and winds reaching speeds of 40–50 km/h, may impact several regions in the Northeast during this timeframe.

According to the IMD's advisory, the heavy rainfall could result in waterlogging in low-lying areas, traffic disruptions, and localized landslides in susceptible hilly regions. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and adhere to local weather updates and official guidance.

The department also warned that strong winds and lightning could pose risks to fragile structures, crops, trees, and power lines.

“It is advisable for individuals to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid seeking shelter under trees, and disconnect electrical devices during lightning events,” the advisory emphasized.

Furthermore, the IMD indicated that vulnerable temporary structures and kutcha houses might sustain partial damage due to the intense rainfall and gusty winds.

In the past 24 hours, numerous locations in Assam and Meghalaya have recorded substantial rainfall, with gusty winds noted in Guwahati.

Wind speeds reached 46 km/h in Guwahati, while areas like Manas and Shillong also experienced strong gusts.

Officials reported that district administrations are actively monitoring the situation, especially in areas prone to flooding and landslides.

The IMD has advised travelers to refrain from unnecessary journeys during heavy rain and thunderstorms, as temporary waterlogging and reduced visibility could hinder road traffic in urban settings.

In addition to Assam and Meghalaya, heavy rainfall warnings have been issued for Arunachal Pradesh from Friday to May 17, and again on May 20 and 21.

States such as Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram are also anticipated to experience heavy rain during this forecast period.

Overall, the weather across the broader Northeast is expected to remain unstable, with widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds as pre-monsoon activity intensifies in the region.