Meghalaya govt warns residents, flooding likely in low-lying areas

Shillong: Meghalaya is expected to face particularly severe weather conditions, with isolated extremely heavy rainfall likely from the night of May 26 up to May 28 and the heavy downpours could lead to flooding in low-lying areas and disrupt daily activities, the IMD predicted on Saturday.
The state govt has urged the residents to remain vigilant, ensure that emergency kits are prepared, and avoid unnecessary travel during this period and stay updated with the latest weather reports.
In the light of the imminent weather threat, authorities emphasised the importance of preparedness and SOPs for cyclones providing essential guidelines for emergency responses were issued.
In its advisory ahead of the cyclone, the state govt urged the people to ignore rumours, stay calm, and avoid panic.
“Keep mobile phones charged for connectivity and utilize SMS; Stay informed through radio broadcasts, television updates, and newspapers; Safeguard documents and valuables in waterproof containers; Secure your house, conduct necessary repairs, and prevent loose sharp objects; Ensure livestock safety by keeping animals untied,” the advisory said.
For those indoors during and after cyclone, the advisory urged the people to switch off electrical mains and gas connections, keep doors and windows shut, evacuate early before the cyclone’s onset if the dwelling house is considered unsafe, listen to radio updates and rely only on official warnings and also consume boiled or chlorinated water for safety.
“If outdoors during cyclone, avoid entering damaged buildings, watch out for broken electric poles, wires, and other hazards, seek shelter in a safe location as soon as possible and always consult ANM, ASHA, or the village First Aid team before taking any medicine,” the govt advised.