India: Monsoon rain prompts flooding in north July 5

Event

On Wednesday, July 5, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued its second-highest warning for heavy rain and thunderstorms for the northern states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Assam. These warnings are set to remain in effect through at least Sunday, July 9. Over 400,000 people have been affected by flooding and landslides across the northeastern state of Assam since the last week of June. 

Other states are also affected by the rains. As of July 5, deluge-like situations are being reported in parts of Gujarat state. Flooding and landslides have been reported in Himachal Pradesh state, where many roads, embankments, and bridges have been damaged in the Lakhimpur, Cachar, Dhemaji, Biswanath, Majuli, and Karimganj districts.

Context

The Jammu-Srinagar national highway is regularly closed due to landslides caused by heavy rainfall blocking traffic; one person was killed in a landslide in southern Kashmir on June 30. 

The summer monsoon hits India from July to September. This year, the monsoon arrived in the capital Delhi and other areas of northern India during the last week of June.

Advice

Individuals present in affected states are advised to monitor the situation and anticipate transportation delays. In the event of flooding, keep in mind 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.