The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather advisory for Meghalaya warning of thunderstorms, lightning and heavy to very heavy rainfall in the State from April 28 to May 1. People have been urged by officials to remain alert and take necessary precautions during the period. “Most parts of the state are expected to witness thunderstorms with very heavy rainfall, accompanied by gusty winds of 50-60 kmph,” an official said.
People have been advised to secure loose materials such as tin sheets, bricks and signage that could be blown away during strong winds. Electrical appliances, the advisory said, need to be switched off during lightning activity to reduce the risk of damage or injury. The advisory also cautions against walking or driving through flooded areas, highlighting the danger of strong undercurrents.
“Residents are asked to avoid rivers, waterfalls and streams during the period and to maintain distance from electric poles and power lines to prevent electrocution,” it stated. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said the district management teams, comprising line departments, have been kept on standby, while acknowledging that people in the state have always cooperated to deal with such natural calamities. Rymbui further stated that the deputy commissioners could always approach the state government if there is shortage of funds to tackle natural calamities.