India: Heavy rain hits Tripura and West Bengal states June 12-13

Event

Heavy monsoon rains hit Tripura and West Bengal states and caused flooding on June 12-13, particularly in low-lying areas. On Tuesday, lightning from the storms in the West Bengal districts of Bankura, Hooghly, West Midnapore, Birbhum, and North 24 Parganas left at least ten people dead and several more injured. The storms also reportedly caused rail disruptions in Kolkata.

Rains in Tripura state caused flooding and landslides, which left at least two people dead and affected some 3500 families, forcing them to seek shelter in dozens of emergency relief camps in the state. Further rainfall and consequent flooding, landslides, and transportation disruptions are possible in affected areas in the coming weeks as the monsoon continues.

Context

India's monsoon season generally runs from June through September. The current season is expected to bring normal levels of rainfall, with a 20 percent chance of above-average or below-average precipitation.

Advice

Individuals in the abovementioned areas are advised to monitor developments to weather forecasts as monsoon season gets underway. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.