Assam Prepares for Heavy Rains as Deep Depression Nears Coast

Guwahati: A deep depression currently churning in the westcentral and northwest Bay of Bengal is heading straight for the North Andhra Pradesh and South Odisha coast. The India Meteorological Department expects the system to hit near Kalingapatnam by Wednesday night. As of 8:30 am Wednesday, the storm sat just 60 km southeast of the town.

Assam faces widespread rain throughout September 23. The regional weather office issued an orange alert for East Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao. These districts could see very heavy rainfall between 12 and 20 cm. Forecasters warned of waterlogging, landslides, and mudslides. Power and transport networks remain at risk. Residents must avoid travel near unstable slopes and riverbanks. The IMD stated, "People in hilly and vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather and stay away from unstable slopes and riverbanks."

Rain already soaked the region in the 24 hours leading up to Wednesday morning. Samaguri took the brunt with 14 cm of rainfall. Shillongani and ZRS Shillongani followed with 11 cm each. Other areas including Dharamtul, Biswanath Chariali, and Ashapara logged between 7 and 8 cm of rain. Guwahati stations measured up to 2 cm.

The wet weather will linger. Thursday brings moderate rain to Assam and Nagaland, with lighter falls in Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, and Mizoram. By Friday, heavy downpours will hit Assam, Meghalaya, and Nagaland. Expect persistent thunderstorms and lightning to strike across the Northeast through the weekend.