India: Heavy rains cause flooding in Kerala and northeast June 15 /update 1

Event

Recent heavy rains have caused deadly flooding and landslides in Assam, Kerala, Manipur, and Tripura states as of Friday, June 15. Flash flooding and landslides have left at least 19 people dead in Kerala state in recent hours and 12 others in the northeastern states of Assam, Manipur, and Tripura over the last few days. The rain has displaced thousands of people in northeastern India and caused landslides which have led to significant rail transportation disruptions on routes to Tripura state and in Dima Hasao district (Assam 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.