Delhi-NCR Hit by Heavy Rains and Dust Storms; Northeast Flood Toll Rises to 15 Dead.jpeg)
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June 2, 2025,New Delhi/Guwahati/Itanagar/Imphal – Parts of Delhi-NCR were hit by intense rain and strong, dusty winds on Sunday evening, June 1, offering respite from the searing summer heat. Meanwhile, a worsening flood situation in the northeast of India has led to 15 confirmed deaths and affected over 80,000 people across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur.
Rain Relief for Delhi-NCR
Heavy showers and powerful winds swept across Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad after 4:30 PM on Sunday. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier issued warnings for dust storms and thunderstorms in the region, including parts of western Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.
According to IMD data, Pragati Maidan recorded wind speeds of 76 km/h at 4:45 PM, as trees swayed violently under strong gusts. Visuals shared on social media by residents showed dark clouds, blowing dust, and sudden downpours, which brought momentary chaos but welcomed cooling relief from high temperatures that had been hovering above 43°C for several days.
The IMD has predicted similar conditions over the next 48 hours, including scattered rainfall and gusty winds, as a western disturbance interacts with low-level moisture inflow from the Arabian Sea.
Northeast Floods Worsen: 15 Dead, Thousands Affected
As the northwestern region cooled down, India’s northeastern states are facing a humanitarian emergency due to flooding and landslides triggered by pre-monsoon rains.
Assam: Over 78,000 Affected
In Assam, more than 78,000 people across 15 districts have been impacted by rising river levels, flash floods, and landslides, state officials confirmed. As of June 1, at least eight people have died, while hundreds have been displaced and housed in relief shelters.
The Brahmaputra River and its tributaries are flowing above danger marks in several locations. Cachar, Dima Hasao, Lakhimpur, and Darrang are among the worst-hit districts.
Arunachal Pradesh: 7 Killed in Landslide
In a separate tragedy, seven people were killed in a massive landslide in Seppa West Assembly constituency of Arunachal Pradesh on Saturday, May 31. Officials said rescue operations are underway, though continued rainfall has made access difficult in the hilly terrain.
Manipur: Flash Floods Hit Imphal Valley
In Manipur, the state disaster management authority reported that 3,802 people have been affected, primarily in Imphal East, Kangpokpi, and Churachandpur districts. Overflowing rivers have submerged large stretches of farmland, homes, and road infrastructure.
Centre Assures Help
Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to the Chief Ministers of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim on Sunday, assuring them of "every possible support" from the central government to combat the crisis. According to the Home Ministry, NDRF teams have been deployed, and helicopters are on standby for emergency evacuations and relief distribution.
“Saving every life is our priority,” Shah said in a post on social media. “The central government is closely monitoring the situation and is coordinating with the states.”
What’s Next: Weather Outlook
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Delhi-NCR: Light to moderate rainfall is likely to continue through Monday and Tuesday with chances of thunderstorms and wind speeds reaching up to 50–60 km/h. IMD has not issued a red alert but cautioned people against outdoor activities during high winds.
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Northeast India: The IMD has issued orange alerts for Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur, warning of more rainfall in the next 72 hours, which may aggravate the current flooding.
Conclusion
While Delhi residents welcomed the sudden storm as a break from the punishing heatwave, the situation in northeast India is becoming critical. With monsoon rains expected to intensify in the coming days, both local administrations and the central government face an uphill task to contain the damage and protect lives.