24 Jul 2018 | 04:16 AM UTC
India: Monsoon rains to hit Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan July 24-27 /update 4
Severe monsoon rains forecast to impact parts of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan states July 24-27; flooding and landslides likely
Event
The Indian Meteorological Department issued warnings for severe monsoon rains in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan states from Tuesday, July 24, through Wednesday, July 25. Additional heavy rains are expected in the area through Friday, July 27. According to the Met Department, very heavy to extremely heavy rain is expected in western Madhya Pradesh and eastern Rajasthan. Flooding and landslides are likely in both states in the coming days. Transportation disruptions and power outages are also possible in areas affected by heavy rain and flooding.
Monsoon rains that started on Sunday, July 22, caused significant flooding in eastern Odisha state. As of July 24, at least 12 people have died from the floods. State officials have issued high alerts for six regions in the Mahanadi delta region, including Khurda, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapada, Puri, and Jajpur.
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 abovementioned states 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.
