23 Jun 2023 | 11:17 AM UTC
India: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in Assam State as of June 23
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across much of Assam State, India, as of June 23; further adverse weather forecast.
Event
Flooding is causing widespread disruptions across much of Assam as of June 23. Heavy rainfall in recent days associated with the ongoing monsoon season has caused many rivers across the state to overflow. Authorities have reported one flood-related fatality as of June 23 and nearly 500,000 people across 22 of the state's 31 districts have been affected by the flooding. More than 14,000 people are taking shelter in 83 relief camps across the state. Landslides have been reported in multiple districts and dozens of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure have been damaged by the floods. The western districts of Bajali, Barpeta, and Nalbari are amongst the worst-affected areas.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast further adverse weather across Assam State in the coming days, which could trigger additional flooding as well as hamper ongoing recovery efforts. Yellow heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) have been issued across Assam June 23 and June 26-27, as well as yellow thunderstorm and lighting warnings June 23-24. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Health
Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming days. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
