The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall in many parts of northeast India, West Bengal and Bihar over the next few days and people are bracing for flooding, waterlogging, and disruption to daily life, with the weather forecast coming in that way, it said.
In the latest weather bulletin Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura are expected to experience widespread rainfall and thunderstorms and lightning. Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Gangetic West Bengal and Bihar are also likely to see intense showers due to active monsoon conditions.
The IMD said a strong monsoon trough and favorable atmospheric conditions are driving the increased rainfall activity across eastern and northeastern India. The weather system will continue to be active over the next few days and there will be periods of heavy rain for the weather system and heavy rain will persist for some time.
Flood Risk and Waterlogging Concerns
Sustained rainfall has already contributed to a rise in water levels in several rivers across the northeastern region. Waterlogging can occur in low-lying areas and places near rivers and localized flooding can occur if more rain occurs, too, if heavy rainfall intensifies.
West Bengal and Bihar urban centers will also face traffic congestion, water accumulation on roads, and temporary disruption to public transport. Residents in flood-prone areas need to follow up on official weather alerts and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall, it said.
Authorities on Alert
State disaster management authorities are concerned about the weather situation and have been informed about weather conditions and have been told to monitor weather and are ready for emergency response. Local authorities are in close contact with disaster response teams to respond in case of heavy rainfall.
The IMD has also warned of thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds in some areas. Farmers, fishermen and people working outdoors are advised to be wary of the weather and to avoid open areas during thunderstorms.
Impact on Agriculture
Monsoon rainfall is crucial for agriculture, but when heavy showers persist, the standing crops may be affected if the waterlogging rains can damage them especially in low-lying agricultural fields. Waterlogging might affect paddy cultivation and delay farming in some districts.
Farmers are instructed by agricultural experts to keep drainage at proper level in fields and to follow local agricultural departments’ advice.
Travel Advisory
Heavy rainfall can render roads wet and make roadways slippery and lead to accidents. Weather forecasts should be noted if you are out and the weather forecast is not very good and heavy rain can make it difficult to see out ahead and it leads to accidents as well as traffic jams. Travelers should be aware of weather forecasts before heading out on long trips and be aware of the heavy rain, especially in the mountainous parts of the northeast, where landslides are imminent when it rains.
Air and rail service may also be delayed due to adverse weather in some locations.
Stay Prepared
The IMD will always monitor the weather system and update any forecasts as needed. Citizens should take official advisories, have emergency supplies and not go into flooded areas.
With southwest monsoon still active in different parts of eastern India, residents of northeast India, West Bengal and Bihar should be cautious as heavy rainfall is expected to continue over the next few days.
