More than 40 people have died and hundreds of thousands have been affected by devastating monsoon rains in the Indian state of Assam, with forecasters warning of more downpours, reports infohub.kz.
Local authorities confirmed 41 fatalities. The floods have impacted over 653,000 residents across 11 districts. Hundreds of temporary shelters have been set up for evacuees, providing essential aid. Rescue operations involve the army, air force, and emergency services. Drones are being used to deliver supplies to cut-off areas.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said rainfall had exceeded the climatic norm by 436%, submerging even areas previously untouched by such disasters. "We have already lost 41 precious lives, and thousands of livestock have been washed away. Rains in the upper reaches of rivers and precipitation 436% above normal have caused flooding in villages that had never seen such destruction in recent history," Sarma wrote.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a fresh warning: heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and northeastern states over the coming days. "High monsoon activity will persist over most of India for at least a week. Several states are forecast to see heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated extreme downpours," the forecast said.
Meteorologists also warned of flash floods, landslides, road flooding, and transport disruptions. Fishermen have been advised to stay out of the sea along parts of India's western coast due to strong winds and rough seas.