Imphal/Agartala, March 28 (NationPress) The Meteorological Centre of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Imphal has issued a cautionary alert regarding thunderstorms, which may include lightning and light to moderate rainfall at scattered locations throughout all 16 districts of Manipur over the upcoming five-day period.

In light of increasing worries, the Deputy Commissioner's office in the hilly Kaching district has disseminated a public advisory, urging locals to stay alert due to a noticeable rise in water levels of the Imphal River and Sekmai River.

The advisory, released by District Magistrate Uppuluri Chaitanya, emphasized the potential threat of flooding in lower-lying areas of Kaching district owing to ongoing rainfall and runoff from adjacent areas.

Residents, particularly those residing in at-risk zones, have been instructed to remain vigilant, steer clear of riverbanks, and prepare for possible evacuations should conditions deteriorate.

Local authorities and officials have been tasked with ensuring the readiness of relief efforts, which includes providing safe shelters and deploying emergency response teams.

Citizens are also encouraged to stay updated with official communications and reach out to district control centers in case of emergencies.

Referencing the IMD's predictions, the District Magistrate stated that sustained rainfall is anticipated across the state and various sections of the district over the next five days, commencing Saturday.

The IMD has predicted thunderstorms with lightning, gusty winds at speeds ranging from 30 to 40 kmph, and heavy rainfall expected on Sunday (March 29), with an orange alert in effect.

The public is advised to maintain vigilance and undertake necessary precautions to safeguard life and property.

According to the midday weather update released on Saturday, scattered rainfall along with thunderstorms is highly probable across the state on March 28. The weather is expected to become more widespread on March 29 and 30, with numerous areas likely to receive rain.

Districts including Imphal West, Imphal East, Senapati, Ukhrul, and Churachandpur are projected to experience relatively higher rainfall during the initial phase of the forecast period.

From March 31 onward, the intensity of rainfall is expected to diminish. However, scattered thunderstorms are still likely in various districts, with isolated rainfall possible in parts of the valley districts, such as Bishnupur, Thoubal, and surrounding areas, until April 3.

The IMD categorizes rainfall distribution as isolated (occurring at one or two locations), scattered (at several locations), and fairly widespread (at numerous locations). The term “very likely” indicates a 60 to 70 percent probability of rainfall and thunderstorms.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed with official forecasts via the MAUSAM mobile application or by contacting the IMD Meteorological Centre in Imphal.