India: Storm-related disruptions ongoing across parts of Manipur State as of May 8

Disruptions are ongoing across parts of Manipur State as of May 8 following severe weather across the region in recent days. Scattered showers and storms have been impacting much of northeastern India since late April and a particularly severe storm struck parts of Manipur May 5. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and large hail stones have caused widespread damage across parts of the state and authorities have confirmed one storm-related fatality and at least two others injured. More than 15,000 homes and other buildings have been damaged, as well as many vehicles. Crops and livestock were also lost in the storm. The worst affected areas include parts of Imphal West and Imphal East districts. Schools across the state were closed May 6-7 following the severe weather.

Further adverse weather is forecast in the region over the coming days and will likely hamper ongoing response efforts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) released a press release May 7 stating widespread light-to-moderate rainfall, isolated thunderstorms, and gusty winds are expected across the region through at least May 14. The IMD has issued yellow thunderstorm and lightning warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across Manipur State May 8-12 and yellow heavy rainfall warnings May 10. Lingering disruptions are likely in storm-affected parts of the state over the coming days.

Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region.

Localized business disruptions may occur in areas impacted by the storm; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.