The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that most Northeast states, with the exception of Mizoram and Nagaland, recorded significantly above-normal rainfall for the week ending August 7, 2024. The Regional Meteorological Centre in Guwahati highlighted in its report that the region witnessed excessive rainfall, causing widespread disruptions and raising concerns about potential flooding and landslides.
Meghalaya and Tripura Face Heavy Rainfall
Among the Northeast states, Tripura recorded the highest deviation from normal rainfall, with a staggering 90% increase over the usual levels. During the week, Tripura received 145.4 mm of rainfall, compared to the typical 76.4 mm. Meghalaya, Assam’s neighboring state, also experienced a deluge, recording 40% more rainfall than usual. Specifically, Meghalaya received 165.7 mm of rainfall against the normal 118.6 mm during this period.
Manipur similarly saw a 40% increase in rainfall, registering 88.9 mm compared to the normal 63.3 mm. This surge in rainfall has caused concerns across the region, particularly in the context of infrastructure and flood management.
Assam Hit Hard by Flash Floods
In northeast, Assam’s situation has been particularly severe. The state recorded 7% more rainfall than usual, with 75.1 mm received against the normal 70.4 mm. The heavy downpour since August 5 has resulted in flash floods and widespread waterlogging in Guwahati, the state’s largest city. On August 5 alone, Guwahati recorded a staggering 78.4 mm of rainfall, the highest in this monsoon season. The city has been grappling with the aftereffects, as waterlogged streets and submerged neighborhoods continue to disrupt daily life.
The excessive rainfall in neighboring Meghalaya has exacerbated the situation in Assam and all over northeast. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma noted that activities in the surrounding hilly areas of Meghalaya have contributed to the unprecedented flash floods in Guwahati. The city remains on high alert as the state government and local authorities work to mitigate the impact of the flooding.
Arunachal Pradesh and Other States
Arunachal Pradesh also experienced above-normal rainfall, though to a lesser extent compared to other states. The state received 8% more rainfall than usual, with 74.8 mm recorded against the normal 69.1 mm for the week ending August 7.
On the other hand, Nagaland and Mizoram were spared from the heavy downpours that affected their neighboring states. Nagaland received 15% less than normal rainfall, while Mizoram recorded a slight 2% deficit.
Looking Ahead
The IMD has indicated that the monsoon activity in the northeast region may continue to be intense, with the potential for further rainfall in the coming days. Local governments and disaster management teams are on high alert, with preparations underway to address any emergencies that may arise due to the ongoing weather conditions.
Residents of the affected areas have been advised to stay vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. As the Northeast braces for more rain, the focus remains on minimizing the damage and ensuring that relief and rehabilitation efforts are swiftly implemented.
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