Guwahati: Arunachal Pradesh and parts of upper Assam have started experiencing rainfall, signalling an end to the dry spell in the northeast, while most parts of Assam were expected to receive rain after Holi, Met officials said on Sunday.From Feb 25 to March 1 (Sunday), daily rainfall in Arunachal Pradesh steadily increased in coverage and strength. IMD data showed that on Feb 25, isolated areas received light rain, with a maximum of 3.5mm in Arunachal Pradesh.Light rain was recorded at a few places on Feb 26 and 27, with peak readings of 11.5mm and 6.0mm respectively. On Feb 28, light to moderate rain was recorded at many places, with Wakro receiving the highest amount at 25.0mm.On Sunday, Arunachal Pradesh experienced light to moderate rain at most locations, with Sarli recording the highest at 18.0mm.In upper Assam, IMD data from Feb 25 to March 1 showed light rain at one or two places, with Majuli receiving the highest rainfall of 11.0mm on Sunday.“The rainfall in the northeast, especially in Assam and Arunachal, since last week was primarily due to the cyclonic circulations observed over central Assam or over northeast Assam adjoining Arunachal Pradesh in the lower tropospheric levels,” a senior IMD official said. “For lower Assam, including Guwahati and other parts of the region, rainfall may still be a few days away,” he added.According to IMD predictions, during the pre-monsoon period (March to May), both maximum and minimum temperatures in the northeast are expected to remain above normal, while rainfall in March is likely to be below normal.The prolonged lack of rain disrupted daily life in Guwahati and other parts of Assam, with dust affecting public health. Many people, including working professionals and children, visited doctors for acute respiratory illness and allergy-related problems.On Sunday, the IMD forecast a gradual rise in maximum temperatures by 2-3°C across the northeast over the next four days, with no significant change during the following three days.“Temperature is rising already and dust swept everything in the city. We hope for some rain during Holi. Otherwise, we may keep ourselves confined to our homes due to fear of allergy,” said Kasturi Bhattacharya, a homemaker from the Bharalumukh area.
