Red Alert Issued Across North Bengal
The IMD has escalated its warning to a 'Red Alert' for the districts of North Bengal for June 28 and June 29, signalling the likelihood of severe weather conditions. This highest level of warning indicates a need for immediate action to prevent and mitigate
the impact of extremely heavy rainfall, which could exceed 200 mm in some areas. The alert specifically cautions residents and authorities about the high probability of landslides in the fragile hilly regions and widespread waterlogging or flooding in the plains. This watch follows a period of already significant rainfall in the region.
Which Districts Are Most at Risk?
The primary focus of the alert is on five key districts in the Sub-Himalayan region: Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar. These areas are expected to bear the brunt of the downpour. According to the IMD's special bulletin, Jalpaiguri, Coochbehar, and Alipurduar districts are on alert for extremely heavy rain (over 20 cm) on June 28. Darjeeling and Kalimpong are also forecast to receive heavy to very heavy rain during this period. The warning extends to North Dinajpur, which is under an orange alert for heavy showers. The persistent and intense nature of the rainfall poses a direct threat to connectivity and safety in these districts.
The Science Behind the Downpour
This intense weather event is being driven by a combination of meteorological factors typical of a vigorous monsoon. A seasonal monsoon trough, which is an elongated area of low pressure, is currently active across the country. More importantly, strong moisture-laden winds are blowing in from the Bay of Bengal, feeding the weather system over North Bengal. An upper-air cyclonic circulation over the northeast Bay of Bengal is further strengthening this pattern, ensuring a sustained period of heavy rainfall. These conditions create the perfect storm for the kind of extreme precipitation now being forecast.
High Danger of Landslides and Flooding
In the hilly terrain of Darjeeling and Kalimpong, the primary danger from such intense rainfall is landslides. The soil in these regions becomes saturated, losing its stability and making slopes vulnerable to collapse. In the plains districts like Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar, the risk shifts to severe waterlogging and flash floods. The IMD has warned that the water levels in the region's rivers and streams are likely to rise, potentially crossing danger marks. This could lead to the inundation of low-lying areas, damage to crops, and disruption of road and rail traffic.
Precautions and Official Advice
Authorities have urged residents and tourists in the affected districts to exercise extreme caution. The primary advice is to avoid landslide-prone areas and to stay away from river banks. Residents in low-lying areas are advised to prepare for potential waterlogging and move to safer locations if necessary. It is crucial to stay updated with the latest weather bulletins issued by the IMD and to follow the guidance of local disaster management authorities. Checking road conditions before any travel is essential, as connectivity is likely to be disrupted.
