Itanagar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning across Arunachal Pradesh starting Saturday, with several districts likely to experience heavy to very heavy downpours.
According to the weather bulletin, districts including Tawang, West Kameng, Lower Subansiri, and Anjaw are expected to witness particularly intense rainfall on Saturday, prompting preparedness alerts across these regions. Lower Dibang Valley may also experience heavy rain and thunderstorm activity in isolated pockets, while fairly widespread showers are predicted over East Kameng, Papum Pare, Kurung Kumey, Kra Daadi, Kamle, Upper Subansiri, Upper Siang, West Siang, Lepa Rada, Lower Siang, East Siang, Lohit, Namsai, and Dibang Valley.
The IMD attributed the heightened activity to favourable atmospheric conditions, warning that temporary traffic disruptions, waterlogging in low-lying areas, and minor landslides along vulnerable slopes cannot be ruled out, especially in hilly western and eastern belts. Rainfall is expected to continue into Sunday, with thunderstorms and lightning persisting across several districts, although the intensity is likely to moderate after the initial heavy phase.
A watch alert has been issued for multiple regions, urging residents and travellers to stay informed about changing weather conditions. Authorities have also cautioned that squally winds may lead to power and communication disruptions due to falling branches or weakened structures. Farmers have been advised to take preventive measures to safeguard crops and reduce soil erosion risks in exposed areas.
The IMD expects a gradual improvement in weather from Monday, with only isolated light rainfall likely in some pockets as the wet spell begins to taper off. By Tuesday and Wednesday, most parts of Arunachal Pradesh are forecast to experience predominantly dry conditions and clearer skies.
The meteorological centre has urged the public to remain cautious during peak rainfall hours and avoid vulnerable zones prone to landslides or flooding, while local administrations have been advised to ensure that preparedness and response measures remain in place.
