“IMD warns of heavy rain, thunderstorms in Arunachal Pradesh, issuing alerts for possible floods, landslides, and travel disruptions. Residents urged to stay safe.”
IMD Warns of Heavy Rain, Thunderstorms in Arunachal Pradesh
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a strong weather advisory, warning of heavy rain and thunderstorms in Arunachal Pradesh over the next few days. The forecast highlights the potential for flash floods, landslides, and disruptions to transport and daily life, urging residents and travelers to take precautions.
Why the IMD Warning is Significant
Arunachal Pradesh, known for its lush mountains and scenic river valleys, often faces extreme weather during the monsoon season. When the IMD warns of heavy rain, thunderstorms in Arunachal Pradesh, it signals a heightened risk for the region’s fragile hilly terrain.
Meteorologists attribute this weather pattern to the active southwest monsoon coupled with local atmospheric disturbances. The heavy cloud formation and increased moisture in the air have created conditions for severe thunderstorms and prolonged rainfall.
Areas Likely to be Most Affected
According to the IMD, districts such as Itanagar, Pasighat, Ziro, Bomdila, Tawang, and Roing could experience the most intense rainfall and thunderstorm activity. These areas are also highly prone to:
- Landslides blocking key roads.
- River flooding due to overflowing tributaries of the Siang, Subansiri, and Lohit rivers.
- Power outages caused by strong winds and lightning strikes.
Potential Impact on Transport
With the IMD warning of heavy rain and thunderstorms in Arunachal Pradesh, both road and air travel could be disrupted.
- Roads: The National Highway 415 connecting Naharlagun to Itanagar is especially vulnerable to landslides.
- Air travel: Pakyong Airport in Sikkim and Donyi Polo Airport in Hollongi may face visibility issues, causing flight delays or cancellations.
Travelers are advised to check weather and transport updates before starting their journey.
Risk of Flooding and Landslides
The Brahmaputra basin and its tributaries are expected to swell due to the intense rainfall. The IMD has warned that flash floods are possible in low-lying areas, especially in eastern Arunachal Pradesh.
Meanwhile, steep slopes in the districts of West Kameng, Tawang, and Upper Subansiri are at risk of landslides, which can isolate communities for days.
IMD Safety Advisory
The IMD’s advisory, following the warning of heavy rain and thunderstorms in Arunachal Pradesh, includes the following safety tips:
- Avoid unnecessary travel during peak rainfall.
- Stay indoors during lightning activity.
- Keep emergency kits ready with flashlights, water, and dry food.
- Residents in landslide-prone areas should stay alert for early signs of slope movement.
Government Preparedness Measures
The Arunachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) has already activated its emergency response teams. Shelters have been prepared in vulnerable areas, and rescue boats are on standby near flood-prone riverbanks.
Local authorities have also instructed district administrations to monitor water levels closely and maintain constant communication with the IMD for real-time updates.
Impact on Agriculture and Livelihoods
For a state where a large population depends on agriculture, heavy rain and thunderstorms in Arunachal Pradesh can have both positive and negative effects. While rain is essential for paddy and maize crops, excessive water can destroy fields, cause soil erosion, and damage horticulture plantations.
Farmers have been urged to secure their crops and livestock ahead of the predicted weather.
Tourism Sector on High Alert
Arunachal Pradesh’s tourism department has issued caution notices for visitors to popular destinations like Tawang Monastery, Ziro Valley, and Namdapha National Park.
Trekking, river rafting, and adventure tourism operators have temporarily suspended activities due to safety concerns.
Past Weather Disasters in the Region
The IMD’s warning is not without precedent. In 2022, heavy monsoon rains caused severe landslides in West Kameng and Papum Pare districts, leading to loss of lives and damage to infrastructure.
By issuing timely alerts when IMD warns of heavy rain and thunderstorms in Arunachal Pradesh, the aim is to reduce casualties and property loss through early preparedness.
Climate Change and Extreme Weather
Experts point out that climate change is intensifying weather patterns in the Northeast. Monsoon rains are becoming more erratic, and storms are growing more powerful.
This year’s IMD warning is part of a broader trend where Arunachal Pradesh experiences shorter, more intense rainfall events, increasing the risk of floods and landslides.
How Residents Are Reacting
Local residents are taking the IMD’s warning seriously. Many in Itanagar have stocked up on essentials, while villagers in low-lying areas are moving valuables to higher ground. Schools in certain districts have been advised to remain closed on days of extreme weather.
The Road Ahead
The IMD will continue to issue daily updates as the weather system evolves. If rainfall exceeds forecasted levels, the warning for heavy rain and thunderstorms in Arunachal Pradesh could escalate from orange to red alert.
Officials urge residents to stay tuned to local news, weather apps, and government advisories for real-time updates.
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