Assam weather: Heavy rain forecast triggers flood and landslide fears in Guwahati; ASDMA issues precautionary alert

The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) issued a statement on Sunday, urging residents to stay alert in light of the IMD’s warning.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in Guwahati over the next three days, raising fresh concerns about flash floods and landslides. The city is still recovering from the severe flooding and waterlogging caused by record rainfall on May 31, which resulted in five landslide-related deaths, The Telegraph reported.

The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) issued a statement on Sunday, urging residents to stay alert in light of the IMD’s warning. “The weather pattern suggests that thundershower with 75 per cent predictability with heavy to very heavy rainfall is very likely at isolated places in the city today (Sunday) and over the next 2-3 days, which may aggravate water logging, slow vehicular movement, and increase the risk of localised landslides in vulnerable pockets,” the statement read.

Following the heavy rains earlier this month, Guwahati experienced a heat spell last week. The temperature peaked at 37 degrees Celsius on Friday, before cooling slightly to 32 degrees Celsius after a brief spell of rain in the evening. Humidity levels during the day touched 92 per cent, adding to the discomfort of residents.

According to the Telegraph report, the Guwahati city officials are closely monitoring the situation, and emergency response teams are on alert. ASDMA also reminded the public of past incidents where heavy rain led to dangerous landslides and requested citizens to take all necessary precautions.

The ASDMA has asked people in low-lying and hillside areas to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain. Those living in landslide-prone zones are advised to move to safer places or government relief shelters temporarily.

Citizens have been encouraged to keep emergency supplies like medicines, food, drinking water, candles, and other essentials ready. The authorities have also released helpline numbers—0361-1070, 0361-1079, and 0361-1077—for emergency assistance.