Assam Braces for Cyclone Remal: Red and Orange Alerts Issued Across Districts

As Cyclone Remal approaches, Assam braces for its impact with a red alert issued for extremely heavy rainfall in seven districts and an orange alert in 11 districts, as per an official announcement. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has heightened preparedness, following the cyclone's anticipated landfall around midnight on Sunday. After affecting West Bengal and Bangladesh on May 26, the cyclone is expected to move towards the Northeast, bringing extensive rainfall over Assam and neighboring states on May 27 and 28.

The Indian Meteorological Department has specifically issued a red alert for Chirang, Goalpara, Baksa, Dima Hasao, Cachar, Hailakandi, and Karimganj districts. Meanwhile, an orange alert is in place for Dhubri, South Salmara, Bongaigaon, Bajali, Tamulpur, Barpeta, Nalbari, Morigaon, Nagaon, Hojai, and West Karbi Anglong. The region is also expected to experience squally winds of 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph over South Assam and Meghalaya on May 27.

In response to the looming threat, preparedness measures have been significantly escalated. NDRF teams have been prepositioned in vulnerable districts. The Fire and Emergency Services headquarters has ensured all SDRF teams and fire stations are on standby. A series of meetings were convened by nodal officers from ASDMA and the Revenue and Disaster Management department with district authorities to review preparedness levels.

Regulatory measures for boat traffic in rivers of certain districts such as Dhubri, Goalpara, South Salmara, Bongaigaon, Barpeta, and Barak Valley may be implemented to ensure safety. The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has undertaken desiltation of major river channels including Bharalu, Bahini, Basistha, Mora Bharalu and Lakhimijan along with other major drains to mitigate waterlogging risks. Super sucker machines and pumps have been mobilized with additional manpower for this purpose.

Anticipatory evacuation strategies are being considered for populations in landslide-prone areas across several districts including Guwahati, Kamrup, Dima Hasao, Cachar, Karimganj, Hailakandi, Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong. The Health Department is on high alert with emergency medicines and healthcare staff readily available. Other departments such as Power, Forest, Panchayat and Rural Development, and Irrigation have also been instructed to remain vigilant.

The public has been advised to take precautionary measures including avoiding vulnerable structures, staying clear of waterlogged areas, seeking shelter during storms, stocking up on essentials, and contacting authorities in emergencies. Amidst these preparations, the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Guwahati forecasts temperatures above normal levels with maximum temperatures likely to reach 37-39 degrees Celsius in south Assam and 36-38 degrees Celsius in other parts of the state. However, a decrease in temperatures is expected within the subsequent 48 hours.

This comprehensive response underscores the seriousness with which Assam is approaching Cyclone Remal's threat. With extensive preparations underway across multiple districts and departments working in coordination, the state aims to minimize the impact of the cyclone on its residents and infrastructure.