Assam and several Northeastern states are on alert as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues a Red Alert for May 29 and 30, forecasting very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. The alert, the highest in IMD’s warning system, signals “Take Action”—a call for urgent preparedness as the region faces the risk of flash floods, landslides, and severe disruptions
Critical 48 Hours for the North Eastern States
According to the IMD weather report today, a well-marked low-pressure area over the northwest Bay of Bengal, coupled with an associated cyclonic circulation, is driving the intense weather system, unleashing widespread rainfall across Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, and extending to Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim.
The Red Alert specifically covers districts including Dhubri, South Salmara, Goalpara, Barpeta, Bongaigaon, West Karbi Anglong, and Sribhumi on May 29, expanding to include Baksa, Bajali, Dima Hasao, Cachar, and Hailakandi on May 30. These areas are bracing for rainfall exceeding 21 cm in 24 hours, accompanied by winds of 40–50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph increasing the risk of Assam flood.
Neighboring states are also under threat. Mizoram’s Mamit, Kolasib, and Saitual districts, as well as Tripura’s West Tripura and Khowai, are under Red Alert for similar extreme rainfall and strong winds.
Monsoon Surge Intensifies Risks
The IMD’s extended forecast warns that the entire Northeast will see “fairly widespread to widespread light/moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning” over the next week. Isolated pockets in Assam, Meghalaya, and the neighboring hill states could experience extremely heavy downpours, raising the risk of flash floods and landslides.
The Southwest Monsoon has already advanced rapidly and the IMD expects the monsoon to cover the remaining parts of the Northeast and West Bengal in the next two days, further fueling rainfall intensity.
Guidelines from the ASDMA
In response to the Red Alert, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has ramped up preparations, especially in urban centers like Guwahati, where waterlogging, heavy traffic, and the risk of tree falls and landslides are of particular concern. Disaster response teams are on standby, and local authorities are closely monitoring high alert zones.
Residents, especially those in low-lying or hillside areas, are urged to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel during intense rainfall periods
- Remain alert for signs of flooding or landslides
- Follow official weather updates and advisories
- Prepare emergency kits and have evacuation plans ready if needed
Travel and Daily Life Disruptions Expected
Daily commuters and long-distance travelers are advised to plan ahead, as road and rail disruptions are likely. Authorities warn that continued downpours could aggravate waterlogging in Guwahati and other cities, slow vehicular movement, and increase the risk of local disasters.
With the IMD’s Red Alert and the monsoon in full swing, Assam and the Northeast face a crucial 48-hour window. Authorities are urging the public to stay informed, take precautions, and prioritize safety. Stay tuned to official IMD bulletins for real-time updates as the situation unfolds.