The Southwest monsoon's early arrival over the Northeastern states has brought persistent rain to the region. While Northeast India typically experiences a rain deficit, Assam has already seen a surplus of 1% rainfall between June 1st and 16th, with Meghalaya receiving a staggering 31% more than usual.
A cyclonic circulation over Northeast Assam, coupled with a trough extending from Sub-Himalayan West Bengal to the cyclonic circulation over northeast Assam. Additionally, strong moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal is creating the perfect conditions for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across Assam and Meghalaya between June 17th and 20th. Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim can also expect heavy downpours during June 17th and 18th.
Assam, unfortunately, is highly susceptible to flooding during the monsoon season. This intense rainfall is likely to trigger widespread waterlogging and flash floods in many districts. The Beki, Pagladiya, and Puthimari rivers are all at risk of overflowing their danger level marks.
Troublingly, similar widespread flooding occurred around June 22nd and 23rd in 2023 across several districts. This year, the following areas are anticipated to be most affected by the heavy rains: Bajali, Baksa, Barpeta, Biswanath, Chirang, Darrang, Dhemaji, Dhubri, Dibrugarh, Golaghat, Hojai, Kamrup, Kokrajhar, Lakhimpur, Nagaon, Nalbari, Sonitpur, Tamulpur, and Udalguri.
This year also we expect the above districts are at the risk of flooding. While an improvement in the weather situation is expected from June 21st or 22nd, light to moderate rain is still likely to persist. Residents in these high-risk districts are advised to stay vigilant and follow official advisories closely.
Image Credit: images.indianexpress.com
Click to see the live lightning and thunderstorms across India
Download our app to get real-time updates with just one click
