Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority warns of heavy rain, flood risks

DIMAPUR — The Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), Home Department, has issued an advisory cautioning the public of potential risks due to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across the state from July 16 to the 23rd.

According to the NSDMA weather update issued on Tuesday, Nagaland is expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms during this period. In particular, the districts of Mon, Tseminyu, Niuland, Dimapur, and Kohima have been identified as likely to receive heavy rainfall and thunderstorms between July 16 and the 21st. The remaining districts are predicted to experience light to moderate rainfall, which may intensify in the days ahead.

The NSDMA warned that the ongoing heavy precipitation could disrupt communication and connectivity, while hilly terrains may witness increased risks due to high precipitation.

Lowland and foothill areas, particularly Dimapur, Niuland, Chümoukedima, Bhandari, Baghty, Tizit, and Tuli, have been flagged as vulnerable to waterlogging and flash floods, it said.

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In light of the forecast and the current flood situation in certain areas, the NSDMA has urged the public in low-lying regions to take precautionary measures to mitigate risks. These include safeguarding valuable documents and belongings, evacuating from flood-prone areas when advised, monitoring for gas leaks, avoiding consumption of food contaminated by floodwaters, and refraining from entering or driving through flooded areas.

Residents are also advised to disconnect and elevate electrical appliances, boil or chlorinate drinking water, and remain vigilant for open drains or flood channels.

The NSDMA has also called upon all district disaster management authorities and line departments to remain on high alert to ensure the safety of lives and property throughout the monsoon season.

The public has been urged to exercise caution to prevent any untoward incidents during this period. For any emergencies, citizens can contact the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) at the toll-free number 1070, the advisory stated.