Guwahati, June 4 (IANS) Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to continue across several northeastern states over the next five to six days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday warning of thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds across the region amid the advance of the southwest monsoon.

According to IMD officials, conditions are favourable for the southwest monsoon to advance into more parts of the Northeast during the next two to three days after making its onset over Kerala on Thursday.

The monsoon has already progressed into parts of the Bay of Bengal, setting the stage for enhanced rainfall activity across the region.

The weather office forecast fairly widespread to widespread light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds over Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura during the coming week.

Wind speeds are expected to reach 40-50 kmph in several areas, particularly on June 6 and 7. Officials said isolated heavy rainfall is very likely over Assam and Meghalaya on June 4 and 5 and again on June 10, while isolated very heavy rainfall is expected between June 6 and 9.

Arunachal Pradesh is likely to witness very heavy rainfall on June 4 and during June 6-9, with heavy rain forecast on June 5 and June 10.

Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura are also expected to receive heavy rainfall between June 5 and 10.

The IMD noted that the region has already begun experiencing intense weather activity. During the 24 hours ending at 8.30 a.m. on Thursday, Arunachal Pradesh recorded very heavy rainfall, while isolated heavy rainfall was reported in Assam and Meghalaya.

Badatighat in Assam received 10 cm of rainfall, while gusty winds of up to 52 kmph were recorded at a meteorological station in the region.

Officials cautioned that heavy rainfall may trigger waterlogging in low-lying areas, localised flooding, traffic disruptions and landslides in vulnerable hilly regions.

Residents have been advised to stay updated with weather bulletins and take necessary precautions during periods of intense rainfall and thunderstorms.

The IMD has also issued agrometeorological advisories for northeastern states, urging farmers to ensure proper drainage in crop fields and protect harvested produce from expected spells of heavy rain.

–IANS

tdr/dpb