Guwahati, April 21 (NationPress) A recent episode of intense rainfall and an unexpected storm has resulted in significant power outages and load shedding across various neighborhoods in Guwahati, as reported by an official from the electricity department on Monday.

The city experienced heavy rain on Sunday evening, causing a complete halt in activities due to extensive power cuts, waterlogging, and traffic congestion in numerous areas. The downpour persisted for over an hour, accompanied by strong winds and thunder.

Several regions, including Chandmari, Beltola, Zoo Road, and Maligaon, reported electricity disruptions as stormy winds knocked down power lines and trees.

Waterlogging was observed in low-lying regions such as Anil Nagar, Nabin Nagar, and RG Baruah Road, with knee-deep water in some stretches, affecting vehicle movement and forcing pedestrians to navigate through murky streets. “I was stuck in traffic for over two hours near ABC point due to waterlogging and a fallen tree,” recounted Ananya Sharma, a commuter.

Officials from the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) stated that teams have been dispatched to restore electricity in the affected locations and urged residents to remain indoors and avoid fallen wires.

This sudden storm is being linked to a local weather disturbance typical during the pre-monsoon season in Assam. The Regional Meteorological Centre has predicted more isolated showers in the coming days.

In addition, heavy rainfall also impacted several districts in Assam, signaling the onset of pre-monsoon rain in the state.

The storm, which hit late in the evening and persisted through the night, brought high-velocity winds, sheets of rain, and hailstones comparable to marbles.

Villages in districts such as Darrang, Nalbari, and Kamrup experienced significant damage, with images depicting torn tin roofs, uprooted trees, and fields inundated with water.

Farmers have reported substantial damage to Boro paddy crops and vegetables nearing harvest.

In urban areas, streets transformed into streams, traffic halted, and power outages occurred in multiple locations due to downed electric poles and trees. Meteorologists indicated that the hailstorm was caused by a sudden shift in upper air circulation combined with moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal. “Such occurrences are not unusual in April, but this time the intensity was remarkable,” stated a spokesperson from the Regional Meteorological Centre in Guwahati.