Guwahati, June 03: Assam, known for its lush green landscapes and abundant rainfall, is currently facing heat as it experiences a significant rainfall deficit of 38% during the pre-monsoon period.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that from March 1 to May 31, the state received only 337 mm of rain, compared to the normal average of 542 mm. This stark contrast is a cause for concern, considering that Assam witnessed a surplus of 40% rainfall during the same season last year.
The situation is not limited to Assam alone, as the entire northeast region has recorded a rainfall deficit of 35% during this period. With only 242 mm of rainfall against the normal average of 373 mm, the area has experienced a considerable shortfall in precipitation. As a result, the soaring temperatures have crossed the 37 degrees Celsius mark in various towns across Assam, making daily life challenging for its residents.
The IMD attributes the decline in rainfall activity to the absence of cyclonic disturbances over the Bay of Bengal. Until the end of April, most districts in Assam received average or above-normal rainfall.
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However, the scenario changed drastically in May, with scanty rainfall becoming the norm. This significant drop in precipitation has led to a surge in maximum temperatures, exacerbating the discomfort caused by the ongoing heatwave.
Guwahati, the largest city in Assam, experienced a sharp increase in temperature, reaching a sweltering 37.8 degrees Celsius on Friday, representing a substantial rise of 6 degrees. The scorching heat has undoubtedly affected the daily routines of the city’s residents, compelling them to seek ways to beat the heat and stay cool.
Despite the distressing conditions, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Sanjay O’Neil Shaw, the Deputy Director General of Meteorology at the Regional Meteorological Centre in Guwahati, assures that light to moderate rainfall accompanied by gusty winds is predicted for many places in Arunachal Pradesh.
Additionally, isolated areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura may also experience light rainfall in the coming days.
While the prospect of rainfall brings some respite, it remains crucial for the authorities and residents of Assam to remain vigilant during this period of rainfall deficit and heatwave. Taking necessary precautions to stay hydrated, seeking shade, and avoiding direct exposure to the scorching sun is imperative for personal well-being. It is hoped that the much-needed rainfall will arrive soon, bringing relief to the parched lands and restoring normalcy to the lives of the people of Assam.
