Several areas in Meghalaya, including parts of Shillong, Nongstoin, Tura and Baghmara, were impacted by heavy winds and rainfall, prompting the State government to intensify damage assessment and relief efforts.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Sunday held a review meeting with the Chief Secretary, the Commissioner and Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, and Deputy Commissioners to assess the damage caused by the recent hailstorm across the State.
In a social media post following the meeting, the Chief Minister said, “Held a review meeting with the Chief Secretary, Commissioner & Secretary (Revenue & Disaster Management), Deputy Commissioners and officials to assess the damages caused by the recent hailstorm. Directions were issued to closely monitor the situation on the ground, ensure immediate relief and assistance to affected households, and restore and maintain essential utilities at the earliest.”
During the meeting, Sangma directed district administrations to closely monitor the situation on the ground and ensure that immediate relief and assistance reach affected households without delay. Officials were also instructed to restore and maintain essential utilities at the earliest to minimise disruption to daily life.
Meanwhile, State Disaster Management authorities said several areas were affected due to heavy winds and rainfall and that additional manpower has been mobilised to restore normalcy at the earliest.
Separately, an advisory issued by R.M. Kurbah, Deputy Commissioner and Chairperson of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), East Khasi Hills district, warned of thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and heavy rainfall in the district from March 15 to March 19, based on forecasts by the India Meteorological Department.
According to the advisory, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, gusty winds of 40–50 kmph, heavy rainfall and hail are likely at isolated places on March 15. Similar weather conditions with gusty winds of 30–40 kmph and heavy rain are expected on March 16, while thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are likely at isolated locations on March 17. Thunderstorms and lightning are forecast at isolated places on March 18 and 19.
The advisory urged residents to take precautionary measures, including securing loose objects such as tin sheets, bricks and signboards that could be blown away by strong winds. People were also advised to switch off electrical appliances if lightning persists.
Authorities cautioned residents to remain vigilant during heavy rainfall due to the possibility of flash floods, particularly in areas near rivers and streams. Citizens have been advised not to venture near water bodies, avoid walking through moving water, and stay away from streams, drains, culverts, rivers and waterfalls.
The advisory also warned against driving through flooded areas and urged people to keep away from electric poles or power lines to prevent electrocution. Residents have been advised not to venture into streams, rivers and waterfalls and to avoid going outdoors during hailstorms.
Citizens requiring assistance during emergencies have been asked to dial 112. Authorities have urged the public to remain alert and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during the period.
