Guwahati, May 31: Assam has received a widespread torrential downpour in the last 24 years, with Sonitpur and Lakhimpur districts recording highest rainfall at 220 mm and 180 mm, respectively, with other districts also recording very heavy rainfall. Guwahati city alone received 120 mm and is forecasted to receive more heavy rains on Saturday and Sunday.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Regional Meteorological Centre in Guwahati reported that a depression over Bangladesh has weakened into a low-pressure area over north-east Assam and its neighbourhood. However, an associated cyclonic circulation persists over Arunachal Pradesh, extending up to 3.1 km above mean sea level. This condition is expected to bring moderate rainfall to most places, with isolated heavy to very heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph on May 31 and June 1, 2025.
Districts specifically warned for heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied with thunderstorm and lightning along with gusty wind at speed 30-40 kmph on Saturday include Dhubri, Kokrajhar, Bongaigaon, South Salmara, Goalpara, Chirang, Baksa, Barpeta, Bajali, Dima Hasao, and Cachar. These conditions are likely to cause waterlogging, flooding in low-lying areas, landslides, landslips, and mud-slips in vulnerable regions.
The IMD also warned of potential uprooting of trees, breaking of tree branches, and disruptions to road and rail traffic, leading to increased travel time. Visibility may become poor due to intense rainfall, and there’s a risk of damage to crops in the maturity stage, as well as temporary disruptions to power and municipal services.
On June 1, Dhubri, South Salmara, Goalpara, Barpeta, and Bongaigaon districts are expected to experience heavy to very heavy rain with thunderstorms and lightning, accompanied by gusty winds at speed of 30-40 kmph.
The IMD has advised the public to monitor weather updates, follow traffic advisories, avoid staying in vulnerable structures, and seek safe shelters. It also recommended providing proper drainage in cropped fields and avoiding areas prone to waterlogging, landslides, and flash floods.
