Guwahati, July 13 (IANS) Heavy rainfall is set to continue across Assam over the next five days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of thunderstorms, lightning and isolated spells of heavy to very heavy rain in several districts, even as the southwest monsoon remains active over the state, officials said on Monday.

According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Guwahati, light to moderate rainfall occurred at most places in Assam during the past 24 hours, with isolated heavy to very heavy showers recorded in several districts.

The highest rainfall in the state was recorded at Beki Road Bridge in Barpeta district at 15 cm, followed by Pandu in Kamrup (Metro) at 14 cm, Manas NH Crossing in Barpeta at 12 cm and Dhupdhara in Goalpara at 11 cm. Barpeta town also received 10 cm of rainfall.

The IMD said the monsoon trough currently extends from Sri Ganganagar through northern India to Manipur, while upper-air cyclonic circulations over Bangladesh and the adjoining Bay of Bengal are influencing weather conditions across the Northeast, leading to widespread rainfall activity.

The weather office has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning at isolated places across Assam, along with heavy rainfall at isolated locations.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, the intensity is expected to increase, with heavy to very heavy rainfall likely at isolated places in the state.

Similar conditions are expected to persist till July 18, with moderate rainfall likely at many places across Assam and no significant change in maximum temperatures.

The IMD has advised residents to remain alert as thunderstorms may uproot trees and damage vulnerable structures, while heavy rain could trigger waterlogging in low-lying areas, disrupt road and rail traffic, affect ferry services and temporarily interrupt power supply in some places.

People have been urged to avoid taking shelter under trees or weak structures during thunderstorms and follow official weather advisories.

–IANS

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