India: Flooding kills at least 64 in Uttar Pradesh July 26-29 /update 7

Event

Monsoon rains in Uttar Pradesh state have caused deadly flooding between Thursday, July 26, and Sunday, July 29, with state officials reporting at least 64 deaths in Agra, Mainpuri, Muzaffarnagar, and Kasganj during that period. Officials in Delhi (Uttar Pradesh state) report that over 1000 families had been evacuated from the banks of the Yamuna River by Sunday morning, July 29 (local time), due to dangerous water levels. Recovery efforts are ongoing across the state and warnings for heavy rain remain in effect through Tuesday, July 31. Additional flooding, accompanied by dangerous conditions and likely transportation disruptions, is probable in the area in the coming days.

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 present in the aforementioned areas are advised to monitor weather forecasts, refrain from traveling to flooded areas, and follow any instructions issued by local authorities. 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. Be aware that the risk of contracting water- and mosquito-borne diseases tends to rise after periods of heavy rain.