Continuous rainfall in the northeast parts of the Himalayan range over the past few days has caused devastating floods in the Indian states of West Bengal and Sikkim, as well as in parts of Nepal. Although the Department of Surface Transport reported some roadblocks here in Bhutan, the incessant rain did not cause any major damage.
Continuous downpours in Nepal have resulted in a death toll of at least 100 people due to major floods and landslides according to media reports.
Similarly, a landslide in Sikkim has damaged several homes and bridges.
According to the National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology, the downpour in the southern foothills of the Himalayas was caused by the formation of a low-pressure belt.
During the monsoon, winds typically flow from the southwest, originating from the Bay of Bengal or the Arabian Sea and moving inland towards regions such as India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan.
In the past week, a low-pressure belt formed across the southern foothills of the Himalayas.
This low-pressure system drew in more moisture from the Indian Ocean, resulting in heavy rainfall.
Sangay Tshering, the Hydrology and Meteorology Officer said “Another reason was the presence of a cyclonic circulation over central India, which helped to draw in more moisture into the Bhutan region. This was the main factor contributing to the increased rainfall we experienced during the past week.”
Additionally, the National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast that parts of Bhutan will experience continuous rainfall until the middle of October.
Sangay Tshering added “The monsoon season usually extends to the end of the September month, but unusually this year it is going to stay with us for longer period of time. So, we are expecting monsoon to withdraw about mid of October.”
As of today, the Department of Surface Transport has reported several roadblocks across southern Bhutan and issued an alert detailing the affected roads and the expected clearance times.
In the capital, the incessant rainfall has caused landslides that blocked highways and damaged water transmission lines.
The Thimphu Thromde has warned residents about the risks of floods, landslides, roadblocks, and sewage blockages within the city.
Dechen Choden
Edited by Sherub Dorji
