August 15, 2023
Introduction
A renewed spell of heavy rainfall is set to drench the eastern states of Odisha, West Bengal, Sikkim, and Jharkhand between August 15 and 19, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The weather forecast comes as a relief to the region, which has experienced a weakened monsoon phase in recent days.
The prevailing meteorological conditions indicate a cyclonic circulation over South Bangladesh and its neighbouring areas. Simultaneously, the monsoon trough, slightly north of its usual position, is passing through East Indian districts like Supaul in Bihar and Cooch Behar in West Bengal. These systems are expected to bring moderate to heavy showers to the eastern states, with isolated heavy rains ranging from 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm. West Bengal and Sikkim will likely experience similar weather until Thursday, August 17, while Odisha and Jharkhand may witness these conditions until Saturday, August 19.
Despite the anticipated benefits of the upcoming rainfall, the IMD warns of potential impacts that residents and authorities should be prepared for. Some of the probable impacts include:
1. Poor visibility caused by intense rainfall, leading to traffic congestion.
2. Temporary traffic disruptions due to waterlogging on roads, uprooting of trees, and breaking of branches.
3. Risk of uprooted trees damaging the power sector.
4. Possible damage to vulnerable structures and partial damage to kutcha houses and huts.
5. Flash floods due to heavy rainfall.
6. Waterlogging and flooding in low-lying areas.
7. Landslides and mudslides likely.
8. Possible damage to standing crops and vegetables in the maturity stage.
The IMD has issued precautionary measures:
1. Follow traffic advisories and exercise caution while driving.
2. Seek shelter in safe structures during thunderstorms or lightning activities.
3. Secure vegetable pandals to prevent damage.
4. Avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorms.
5. Protect crops by providing mulch at the base and taking measures to avoid runoff.
6. Farmers should postpone sowing seeds if possible, and if already sown, prevent water stagnation and use natural mulching materials.
7. Stay updated on the latest weather forecasts.
Interestingly, the anticipated rainfall could prove beneficial to the affected states, particularly Odisha and Jharkhand. In the first half of August, Jharkhand experienced a slight rainfall deficit of 9%, while Odisha saw a minor surplus of 4%. Meanwhile, West Bengal and Sikkim registered excess rainfall of 26% and 34%, respectively, during the same period.
Conclusion
As the eastern states brace themselves for this upcoming bout of heavy rainfall, it is crucial for residents, authorities, and farmers to remain vigilant, take necessary precautions, and stay informed about weather updates to minimize potential damages and disruptions caused by the inclement weather.
