The Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), under the Home Department, has issued a weather advisory for the state, forecasting localized thunderstorms and lightning accompanied by moderate rainfall across most areas from September 20 to 22.
In its press release issued on Friday, the NSDMA stated that the districts of Kohima, Peren, and Zunheboto are likely to experience heavy rainfall with localized thunderstorms and lightning on September 21 and 22.
The department cautioned that high precipitation in the hill sectors could trigger flash floods and waterlogging in the lowland and foothill districts of Dimapur, Niuland, Chumoukedima, Bhandari, Baghty, Tizit, and Tuli.
To mitigate the risk of flooding, residents in low-lying areas have been advised to:
Keep valuable documents and items in safe lockers to prevent loss and damage
Evacuate low-lying areas if advised by authorities
Avoid entering flood waters or driving through flooded areas
Disconnect and place electrical appliances above ground level
Boil drinking water or use chlorinated water
Stay alert to any open drain holes or flood channels
For hilly districts vulnerable to landslides, the NSDMA urged residents to:
Remain alert during heavy and continuous rainfall
Stay out of the path of landslides or debris flows
Listen for unusual sounds that might indicate moving debris, cracking trees, or rolling boulders
Watch for sudden increases in stream water levels or changes from clear to muddy water
The NSDMA called upon the public to exercise caution and for all District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) and other line departments to remain on high alert to safeguard lives and property during this period.
In case of emergencies, the public can contact the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) at Toll Free 1070, 112 (ERSS for Disaster Management), or 0370-2291120 / 0370-2291122.