General Forecast:
The southwest monsoon continues its progression across India, now encompassing additional regions such as parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, and the North Arabian Sea. Despite this advancement, meteorologists anticipate a decrease in monsoon intensity over the coming week, potentially exacerbating heatwave conditions in northwest and eastern India. This mixed weather pattern results in varying conditions across the country, with some regions experiencing significant rainfall while others contend with heat waves.
Severe Weather Alerts:
Red warnings have been issued for Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Sikkim, and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal from June 18-19, signalling potential hazards from heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning. Meanwhile, yellow warnings are in effect for Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura and Chennai from June 18-19.
Travel and Supply Chain Impact:
Sikkim:
Heavy rainfall has triggered landslides and flooding, particularly affecting the North Sikkim region.
- Landslides in Mangan District have resulted in six fatalities and affected over 3,000 people statewide. Dozens are being housed in emergency shelters.Residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary, especially in regions with heavy rainfall and flooding
Major road disruptions include:
- National Highway 10 (NH 10) Blocked due to landslides and debris, impacting travel between Sikkim and West Bengal’s Kalimpong district.
- North Sikkim Highway: Severe floods have led to blockages, particularly in Lachung, stranding hundreds of tourists.
- State Highway 1 (SH 1): Closed, affecting transportation between Gangtok and northern towns.
- State Highway 5 (SH 5): Facing closures, impacting local commerce and travel in the northern region.
Assam:
- Floods have affected 25 villages across two districts, with Kamrup district severely impacted.
- Rising water levels in Brahmaputra, Kopili, and Kushiyara rivers have caused severe flooding, affecting roads and bridges in districts like Barpeta, Bajali, and Kamrup.
- The collapse of the Daranga River bridge in Baksa and damage to roads in multiple districts have significantly disrupted travel and logistics and travellers are advised to follow local authority updates and advisories for safety measures.
Chennai:
- Heavy showers with lightning and thunderstorms have disrupted flight services at Chennai airport. Passengers are advised to check flight schedules for delays and cancellations.
- Residents are advised to brace for heavy rainfall over the next few days, potentially leading to significant flooding in low-lying areas such as Guindy, Velachery, Tambaram, Mogappair, Madipakkam, and parts of Pallikaranai.
Goa and Coastal Maharashtra
- Squally weather and strong winds along the coast are affecting fishing activities.
- Fishermen are advised to avoid venturing into the sea.
- Similar conditions are expected in Kerala and Lakshadweep, with strong winds and rough seas impacting maritime activities.
