Owing to the heavy rain forecasts, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has placed an orange alert over Meghalaya, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh on April 14-15, so as to urge the locals to “be prepared” for the inclement weather.
The Deputy Commissioner and Chairperson (DDMA) East Khasi Hills District has also released a five-pointer advisory for people to take precautions and to avoid any incidences.
People are urged to ensure safe keeping of all objects such as lumber piles, loose tin sheets, loose bricks, garbage cans, sign boards etc. which might be blown away in strong wind.
Switch off all electrical appliances like electric iron, mobile charger, television set etc. if the lightning persists.
Asking people to take extra care during heavy rainfall as there is a likelihood of flash flood, especially in areas near the rivers and streams, the DDMA also urged people not to go near the waters or walk through moving water and stay away from streams, drains, culverts, rivers and waterfalls, etc.
“Currents can be deceptive and shallow, fast moving water can knock you off your feet,” it said.
People are also asked not to drive through flooded areas and stay away from electric poles or power lines to avoid electrocution and not to venture into streams, rivers and waterfalls.
Scores of places across southern Meghalaya have been receiving very heavy rainfall for almost a week now.
