Severe weather events left a trail of destruction in parts of Ri-Bhoi on Sunday, with the hardest-hit areas being Umshalani and Umsylliang villages.
Damage to homes was also reported from the Greater Shillong area and electricity supply was disrupted throughout the day, even before the bad weather hit.
Meanwhile, viral videos have shown Guwahati airport being inundated with rainwater as well, with part of a ceiling giving way and a shop ruined by the flow of water. The India Meteorological Department has predicted further bad weather on Monday and the following days, largely due to a low pressure area over Assam.
Umshalani and Umsylliang are both in the Jirang block of Ri-Bhoi.
Reports indicate that the storm inflicted severe damage, with approximately 44 houses left in ruins. Additionally, one senior citizen, identified as Khuni Killing, sustained injuries during the incident.
Pabitra R Hajong, the Block Development Officer of Jirang, confirmed the extent of the damage, citing information provided by the village headmen.
The aftermath of the storm also saw roads blocked by fallen trees, exacerbating the challenges faced by the affected communities. As a result, affected households were directed to seek refuge in nearby school buildings.
Efforts are currently underway to assess the total damages incurred and to arrange suitable shelter for those affected. Officials from the block office are actively engaged in these relief operations.
Meanwhile, reports say that the storm also hit Nongrum Jirang areas and the report of damage there is awaited.
In a special weather bulletin, the Met Department said that heavy rainfall with thunderstorm/lightning and gusty winds of 30 to 40kmph are likely to occur on Monday in isolated places of Meghalaya, with the weather gradually improving over the following few days, although Khasi-Jaintia Hills will likely experience bad weather through to April 4 at least.
