North East Weather Alert: IMD Warns of Heavy Rainfall Ahead

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant weather alert for Assam and its neighboring northeastern states, forecasting a period of moderate to heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning over the next five days. This advisory, released by the Regional Meteorological Centre in Guwahati, Assam, emphasizes the need for residents, particularly those in vulnerable regions, to maintain a high level of vigilance.

The detailed forecast points to moderate rainfall across a wide swathe of the region, including Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. Parts of Tripura and Mizoram are also expected to experience light to moderate showers. A consistent presence of thunderstorms and lightning is anticipated in isolated areas throughout the entire forecast period, adding to the severity of the weather alert. Heavy rain is specifically projected for sections of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Mizoram. Notably, Meghalaya faces the possibility of very heavy showers on the fourth day of this forecast period. Furthermore, parts of Assam are expected to endure temperatures ranging from 3 to 5 degrees Celsius above average, contributing to hot and humid conditions in several districts.

Understanding the North East Weather Alert Timeline

The IMD’s summary provides a day-by-day breakdown of the expected conditions. On Day 1 and Day 2, isolated heavy rainfall is predicted over Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Meghalaya, with thunderstorms and lightning accompanying these conditions in Assam and Meghalaya. Day 3 expands the scope, with isolated heavy rain expected across Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Mizoram. The fourth day is particularly critical, with a high likelihood of very heavy rain in Meghalaya, alongside heavy rain in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Nagaland, and Mizoram. Finally, Day 5 anticipates isolated heavy rainfall in Meghalaya and Mizoram, with numerous areas of Assam continuing to experience hot and humid conditions. This detailed outlook helps to prepare for the varying intensities of the weather alert.

Factors Driving the Intense North East Weather Alert

Several meteorological factors are converging to create these anticipated conditions. Ongoing monsoon activity is a primary driver, influenced by a trough extending from Bikaner all the way to the northeast Bay of Bengal and reaching into higher altitudes. An upper-level cyclonic circulation situated over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjacent areas of Odisha and West Bengal is further intensifying the monsoon conditions across the northeast. While a low-level cyclonic circulation that was previously over northeast Assam has weakened, another trough, stretching from northern Haryana to the Bay of Bengal, is effectively channeling significant moisture into the region. This continuous influx of moisture is crucial in supporting the widespread rainfall predicted in this weather alert.

Recent rainfall data from the past 24 hours underscores the active weather patterns already affecting the region. Locations such as Sataka (ARG), Chandel (KVK), Sonamura, Kampur, Mawsynram, Sohra, Tura, Imphal, Longding, Lawngtlai, Sipahijala, and Khawzawl have already recorded significant rainfall amounts, ranging between 1 and 4 centimeters. This recent activity serves as a precursor to the more intense conditions detailed in the current weather alert.

Staying Safe During the North East Weather Alert

In light of this comprehensive weather alert, the IMD strongly advises residents in areas prone to floods and landslides to implement all necessary precautions. Staying updated with official weather bulletins issued by the authorities is paramount for personal safety and preparedness. Farmers are encouraged to consider the forecast when planning their agricultural activities, as heavy rainfall can significantly impact crops. Transporters should exercise extreme caution and plan their routes keeping potential disruptions due to adverse weather in mind. Outdoor laborers are also advised to schedule their work activities strategically, taking into account the forecasted heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning. The IMD’s proactive issuance of this weather alert aims to minimize risks and ensure public safety across the northeastern states.