Heavy Rainfall Expected in Assam: IMD Issues Alerts
Severe Weather Forecast for Assam
File image of a neighbourhood in Guwahati submerged under floodwaters. (AT Photo)
Guwahati, July 11: Assam is bracing for a week of continuous rainfall, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts heavy showers across the state until July 17.
On Saturday, the weather agency issued a Red Alert for both Assam and Meghalaya, indicating the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds.
This alert is expected to be downgraded to an Orange Alert on Sunday, with very heavy rainfall and similar weather conditions continuing.
From July 13 to July 17, the IMD has issued a Yellow Alert, forecasting heavy rainfall throughout the region. Thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds are anticipated until July 15, with heavy rain expected to persist on July 16 and 17.
The IMD has linked the extended period of wet weather to several active monsoon systems, including the monsoon trough, upper-air cyclonic circulations over Assam and nearby areas, and significant moisture influx from the Bay of Bengal.
These conditions are likely to result in light to moderate rainfall across most parts of Assam, with isolated areas experiencing heavy to very heavy rainfall during the week.
For Saturday, the weather department specifically warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall (7-20 cm) in isolated locations within West Karbi Anglong and Morigaon districts.
In a separate forecast for Guwahati and surrounding areas, the IMD indicated that thunderstorms and lightning, along with moderate rain and isolated heavy rainfall, are expected until 8:30 AM on July 12.
"Thunderstorms and lightning, with occasional moderate rainfall and isolated heavy rainfall (7-12 cm in 24 hours), are very likely," the IMD stated.
The weather office has urged residents to stay updated on weather conditions, adhere to traffic advisories, and avoid traveling through areas prone to waterlogging, flash floods, and landslides.
It cautioned that the ongoing rainfall could lead to waterlogging in low-lying regions and underpasses, disrupt road traffic, reduce visibility, and temporarily affect power supply and municipal services. Ferry and boat operations may also face disruptions, and landslides remain a risk in vulnerable areas.
Daily commuters and long-distance travelers are advised to adjust their plans accordingly, minimizing unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall. Residents in low-lying and hillside regions are also encouraged to remain vigilant for signs of flooding or landslides.
''Given the circumstances, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority urges all residents of Guwahati to take necessary precautions and stay alert,'' a statement read.
This latest forecast arrives as various regions in Assam remain susceptible to floods and landslides during the current monsoon season, with authorities closely monitoring the weather developments.