DIMAPUR:
The Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), on May 17, warned that there is a likelihood of flash flooding and waterlogging due to torrential rain in the foothills and lowlands regions of the state.
According to rainfall data obtained from the NSDMA weather system, the state has observed a spike in weather activity during the past week, with rainfall reaching 191.25mm in Dimapur, 351mm in Peren, and 342mm in Kohima.
In its weather updates for the coming days, the NDMSA said flow of water in Dhansiri and Chathe rivers may increase due to the prolonged spell of heavy rain in the hill sectors and the adjoining areas, such as Domokhia area, are susceptible to floods.
It said landslide activity may also occur in some regions of the state and in all likelihood, roads could be blocked in many parts of the state. The NDMSA advised the departments and agencies responsible for maintaining public infrastructures and essential commodities to make necessary arrangements and contingency plans to meet any eventualities.
State capital Kohima and most other parts of the state are also incessant rain. During this period, thunderstorms and lightning with widespread rainfall are expected in the districts of Peren, Kohima, Wokha, Mon and Tuensang. However, light to moderate rain or thundershowers is very likely to occur in the remaining parts of the state and may become intense, the NDMSA said.
The NDMSA stressed that it is important to take precautionary measures during this time and exercise caution from lightning strikes and gale winds which may cause disruption in communication and connectivity.
The authority also urged the public to be vigilant during the monsoon period and not to shelter under large trees or go for picnic near river banks due to risk to life from lightning and flash floods.