The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) of Manipur has issued an urgent advisory for the residents of Thoubal district, following forecasts of heavy rainfall over the coming days. In light of the potential risks associated with severe weather conditions, authorities have urged people to remain indoors and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Heavy Rainfall Alert in Thoubal
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted intense rainfall across several districts in Manipur, including Thoubal. The continuous downpour, which began earlier this week, is expected to increase in intensity, posing significant risks such as flash floods, landslides, and waterlogging in low-lying areas. In response, the Manipur DDMA has activated its disaster response protocol to minimize the impact of the adverse weather conditions on residents and infrastructure.
Advisory Issued by Manipur DDMA
The advisory issued by the DDMA highlights several key recommendations for residents in Thoubal:
- Stay Indoors: Residents are strongly advised to remain indoors, especially during periods of heavy rainfall, to avoid the risks associated with flash floods and landslides.
- Avoid Waterlogged Areas: Those who must travel are urged to avoid waterlogged areas, as these can be hazardous due to hidden debris, open manholes, and the risk of electrocution from submerged electrical cables.
- Emergency Kits and Supplies: The DDMA recommends keeping emergency kits ready, including essentials such as water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, and flashlights with extra batteries.
- Stay Updated: Residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather forecasts and alerts through official channels such as the IMD website, local news, and radio broadcasts.
- Prepare for Evacuation: In areas prone to flooding or landslides, people should be prepared for possible evacuation and heed instructions from local authorities without delay.
Safety Measures and Precautions
To further mitigate the risks posed by the heavy rainfall, the DDMA has outlined additional safety measures:
- Secure Property: Residents should secure loose items around their homes and ensure that windows and doors are properly closed to prevent water ingress.
- Avoid Electrical Hazards: People should avoid contact with electrical equipment and appliances during heavy rain to prevent electrocution. In case of water entering the house, electricity supply should be turned off immediately.
- Keep Communication Lines Open: It is crucial to maintain open communication lines with family members and neighbors, especially in remote or isolated areas, to ensure timely assistance if required.
Government and Community Response
The state government, in coordination with the DDMA and other emergency services, is on high alert and prepared to respond to any situation arising from the severe weather conditions. Disaster response teams, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local police, are on standby to provide immediate assistance and carry out rescue operations if necessary.
Local communities are also playing a crucial role in responding to the heavy rainfall threat. Many community groups have come forward to assist in monitoring vulnerable areas and helping distribute essential supplies to those in need. Volunteers are also ready to assist with evacuation and shelter management, should the situation escalate.
As Manipur faces another bout of severe weather, the prompt action by the DDMA and cooperation of the public are crucial in minimizing the impact of heavy rainfall in Thoubal. The advisory to remain indoors and take precautionary measures is a timely reminder of the need to prioritize safety during such times. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant, stay safe, and follow all guidelines issued by the authorities.
By staying informed and prepared, the people of Thoubal can effectively mitigate the risks posed by the heavy rainfall and emerge resilient from the challenges brought by the monsoon season.
