SHILLONG/MAWKYRWAT, April 13: The deputy commissioners of East Khasi Hills and South West Khasi Hills have issued a slew of advisories for the public in the wake of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting thunderstorms, accompanied by lightning and very heavy rainfall, on Thursday and Friday.
According to the IMD, fairly widespread to widespread rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorm and lightning, is very likely over sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Northeastern states under the influence of strong southwesterly winds from Bay of Bengal to North East.
In a statement, the East Khasi Hills DC has asked the public to ensure safekeeping of all objects such as lumber piles, loose tin sheets, loose bricks, garbage cans, signboards etc., as they might be blown away due to strong wind.
The public has also been asked to switch off all electrical appliances lest the lightning persists incessantly.
People have also been warned against going near the waters or walking through running water. “Stay away from streams, drains, culverts, rivers and waterfalls, etc. Currents can be deceptive and shallow, fast-moving water can knock you off your feet,” the DC said.
People have also been asked to take extra care during heavy rainfall as flash floods, especially in areas near the rivers and streams, are highly likely. “Don’t drive through flooded areas and stay away from electric poles or power lines to avoid electrocution. Also, do not venture into streams, rivers and waterfalls,” the DC added.
The South West Khasi Hills DC, on the other hand, has also asked the public to eshew stepping out of homes unless deemed necessary.
The DC has also asked the public to abstain from driving through submerged water, ensure stockpiling of essential items such as food and medicines, and turn off electrical appliances when power goes out.
“In case of flooding, turn off the gas connections and be alert of gas leaks, turn off all lights and fans if the ceiling gets wet, drink boiled water to avoid contamination,” the SWKH DC said.
People have also been asked to abstain from walking on areas that are waterlogged, touching electrical poles, consuming roadside food, and standing under trees to get shelter from rain.