IMD issues serious weather warning across the region
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, along with thunderstorms and squally winds, starting 31 October 2025 and continuing into early November across eastern and northeastern India.
Affected regions include West Bengal, Sikkim, Bihar, and northeastern states such as Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh. The IMD expects intense rainfall and strong winds in these areas.
Why this alert matters
High risks of floods, landslides and infrastructure damage
Given the terrain of many northeastern states—with hilly districts, major rivers and vulnerable slopes—the heavy rainfall alert is especially relevant. The IMD’s warning highlights that continuous spells of rain coupled with gusty winds can trigger floods, landslides and urban water‐logging.
Implications for agriculture, transport and livelihoods
Farmers face the risk of crop damage, especially during ongoing Rabi preparations. Disrupted transportation, particularly in hilly districts, may delay essential supplies and communication. Quick preventive action can reduce losses significantly.
Regions under alert and expected timeline
Eastern India in focus
The IMD specifies that from 31 October onwards, eastern India (including West Bengal and adjoining states) can expect very heavy rainfall at isolated places. The rainfall is expected to persist into early November.
Northeastern states gearing up
Northeastern states are also on alert. The bulletin covers states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Tripura where heavy rainfall with thunderstorms and gusty winds is likely. Local administrations have been advised to be on standby.
Timeline and weather systems
The heavy rainfall pattern is being driven by multiple weather systems: residual circulation from earlier cyclonic activity over the Bay of Bengal / east‐central Arabian Sea, along with moisture inflow over the northeastern region. The forecast extends until early November for some areas.
What you should do right now
For residents and local communities
- Stay updated on local bulletins issued by the IMD and state meteorological offices.
- Secure loose objects around homes (roof panels, outdoor equipment) ahead of gusty winds.
- Avoid venturing into flood‐prone zones, river banks and unstable slopes during heavy rainfall.
- In hilly and remote areas, ensure access to emergency services / contact numbers.
- If possible, shift important items (documents, electronics) to higher ground or safe storage.
For farmers and rural stakeholders
- Delay harvesting or field work if heavy rainfall is predicted, especially in low-lying lands.
- Protect livestock by moving them to sheltered locations and protecting fodder from rain.
- Clear drainage channels around fields and homes to reduce waterlogging.
- Monitor local weather updates to adjust sowing or planting schedules accordingly.
For transport & infrastructure authorities
- Monitor bridges and roadways in ideogenesis from rainfall and debris‐flow risk.
- Preposition rescue and relief equipment in high-risk districts (north‐east, foothills).
- Alert public transport, especially in remote areas, about potential delays or route changes.
Broader context and historical patterns
The northeast region has seen similar spells in past years, with the IMD documenting episodes of heavy rainfall triggering flooding in Assam, Meghalaya and other states.
While monsoon withdrawal is underway, the post-monsoon and early winter period can still show enhanced rainfall in hilly and north‐eastern parts due to residual moisture and changing circulation patterns. This alert underscores that fact: rainfall in late October/early November is not uncommon in these zones but still carries high risk.
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The IMD’s issued heavy rainfall alert for eastern and northeastern India is timely and requires urgent attention by residents, farmers, authorities and stakeholders alike. The combination of heavy to very heavy rain, thunderstorms, gusty winds and prolonged duration demands preparedness—now.
If you live in the affected regions: monitor official weather updates, stay clear of flood and landslide-prone zones, and execute safety measures immediately. If you oversee local infrastructure, agriculture, transport or rescue services, deploy action plans now, secure vulnerable assets, and communicate clearly with the community.
Together, by staying vigilant and proactive, we can reduce risk, safeguard lives and maintain resilience as nature goes through this heavy rainfall phase.