SHILLONG: 2 May 2023 (PTI Source)
Heavy rainfall and hailstorms are expected to hit Northeastern states, including West Bengal and Sikkim, as per the Indian Meteorological Department's forecast. This sudden change in weather will help keep the extreme heat of May at bay for another week.
The NE states faced an unusual deficit in rainfall in April, leading to higher temperatures across the region. However, the IMD has predicted very heavy rainfall in isolated places in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Sikkim, Mizoram, and Tripura on Monday and Tuesday, May 1st and 2nd. Over Assam and Meghalaya, heavy rainfall is expected on Thursday, May 4th.
As a result of the wet weather conditions, the IMD has issued an orange alert over Sikkim and West Bengal, while all other NE states are placed under yellow watch. Despite the impending rains, the northeastern states are still likely to witness below-normal rainfall in the month of May.
This forecast brings relief to the region that has been experiencing a heatwave due to a lack of rainfall. The sudden downpour will help farmers, who were unable to grow their crops due to a lack of water, and it will also assist in replenishing the water levels in the region's reservoirs.
The IMD has urged the public to take necessary precautions to avoid any mishaps or accidents due to the heavy rains. They have also advised fishermen to avoid going out to sea during this period.
The heavy rains and hailstorms in the Northeastern states will bring much-needed relief to the region, and it is hoped that the upcoming monsoon season will help alleviate the situation further.